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The Material Life of Equestriennes

Collection Spotlight

July 29, 2017 Through December 17, 2017

In the Hinchcliff Reception Hall

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John M. Peck (American), Woman's Riding Hat, 1800-1825
Photo Credit: 

Petegorsky/Gipe

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Maker Unknown (Apsáalooke, Crow), Woman's saddle with stirrups, late 19th or early 20th century
Photo Credit: 

Laura Shea

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Woman's Riding Hat, 1800-1825

John M. Peck (American)
Beaver felt, lace, and gilt
SK B.18.U.F.1.1

John M. Peck (American), Woman's Riding Hat, 1800-1825

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Woman's saddle with stirrups, late 19th or early 20th century 

Maker Unknown (Apsáalooke, Crow)
Leather, glass beads, paint, and iron
SK K.65

Maker Unknown (Apsáalooke, Crow), Woman's saddle with stirrups, late 19th or early 20th century

Thirty years ago, Mount Holyoke College opened its world-class Equestrian Center. Considered one of the best college facilities for competitive riding and riding education in the United States, the building supports Mount Holyoke's top-ranked riding program, which was founded in 1920. This collection spotlight honors the Equestrian Center's anniversary by exploring two objects relating to the tradition and practice of horseback riding. The featured 19th-century lady’s riding hat and Apsáalooke (Crow) saddle, speak to the history of horseback riding and provide cultural context for the types of riding enjoyed today by students at the Equestrian Center. The objects were selected and researched by MHCAM interns (and equestriennes) Madeline Ketley '17 and Katia Kiefaber '17. 

This collection spotlight is made possible by a grant from the Pierre and Tana Matisse Foundation and the gifts of individual donors in support of Mount Holyoke College Art Museum's Diverse Voices Initiative.