Full Rigged Pack-Saddle c. 1942

This is a watercolor painting of a pack-saddle, made by an anonymous artist. The saddle is primarily constructed from wood, leather, and what appears to be canvas for the padded sections. The choice of these materials speaks to the functional purpose of the object: each component is selected for its durability, flexibility, and capacity to withstand the rigors of physical labor. The saddle’s construction is a complex process, requiring precise woodworking for the frame, careful leather crafting for the straps and supports, and skilled stitching for the canvas padding. The labor-intensive nature of this craft highlights the value placed on skilled handiwork. The pack-saddle is not merely a utilitarian object, but a testament to the expertise and dedication of the craftspeople who produced it. By focusing on the materials, processes, and social context of its creation, we recognize the full meaning of the pack-saddle.