Unusual Saddle Trees, Any Ideas?

[Rod and Denise Nikkel]

We were sent these pictures with the question - do you have any information about age or country of origin? They were purchased at an auction in Ontario, Canada with no history or other information given. Two trees, each appearing to be carved out of a single piece of wood. Any ideas, anyone?

[Thor]

Don't know if this helps you any, but check out this source http://emscat.revues.org/1552 there's a saddle made from a solid tree. However the wood seems to be from South America.

[oltoot]

Probably not relevant but early Mexican trees were carved as a single piece from cottonwood roots. Perhaps someone familiar with woods could identify the source and that might help. It is intriguing to say the least.

[Rod and Denise Nikkel]

Thanks for the information. Looking at the bottom of the trees, I doubt if they ever were really finished. The top is smooth, the bottom is quite rough looking. Unless they were planning on putting panels underneath them? They sure need something to protect the horse from them anyway...

[BondoBobCustomSaddles]

I am also intrigued with these trees. Only a guess, but; since so many of the oldest saddles I've seen were made on compound trees, and the seat shaped differently. While looking at these, the shape of the seat and style suggest later style, I wonder if these are forms for forming seat leather for English and trail type saddles. I would be interested in what you come up with.

Bob