Dutch Equestrian Harness Collar Tack Hames with Sleigh Bells

An exceptionally rare and highly decorative antique horse bell collar dating to approximately 1880–1900. This authentic harness ornament features seven hand-crafted bells mounted on its original padded leather collar, retaining a remarkable level of originality and historic character. Unlike the utilitarian bell collars commonly found on working horses, the refined construction, carefully proportioned bells, and superior materials strongly suggest that this example was created for ceremonial use, festive processions, winter sleigh rides, or special occasions. The overall quality is notably above that of standard agricultural equipment from the period. The collar is fitted with six smaller side bells and one substantially larger central bell, creating a visually balanced and acoustically impressive arrangement. The bells display a beautiful aged surface with an untouched patina developed over more than a century. The original red and cream padded lining remains present, adding further authenticity and visual appeal. Particularly noteworthy is the outstanding craftsmanship throughout. The leather construction, bell mounting, proportions, and finishing details reflect the work of a skilled maker and demonstrate a level of quality rarely encountered today. Complete original examples of this caliber have become increasingly difficult to find. The collar remains in original condition and exhibits age-appropriate wear consistent with over a century of use and storage. Two bells show damage resulting from age and historical use. One of these bells has been professionally stabilized using an industrial-grade adhesive suitable for metal restoration, preserving the visual integrity of the piece while respecting its historic character. The repairs and condition details are clearly shown in the accompanying photographs. Today, this piece represents not only an important example of equestrian history but also a striking decorative object ideal for collectors of antique horse tack...

This vintage set of brass sleigh bells presents a long, graceful run of round, hollow-bodied bells mounted in two staggered rows along a supple leather strap. The bells graduate subt...

19th Century Extra-Long Brass Sleigh Bells on Leather Belt: 39 Jingle Bells, Nearly 8 Feet Long A spectacular and highly authentic set of original 19th-century brass sleigh bells, featuring an impressive 39 hand-cast bells mounted on a nearly 8-foot-long leather strap. This exceptional antique offers not only a beautiful historic presence, but also the perfect traditional “Jingle Bells” sound, bright, rich, and unmistakably festive, just as sleigh bells should be. Each bell is solid brass, tightly fastened and fully functional, producing that magical tone that modern reproductions rarely achieve. The leather strap retains its original metal buckle and remains surprisingly supple and pliable for its age. With simple annual conditioning, it should continue to remain strong and flexible for years to come. The strap appears handmade and hand-stitched, and while there are small areas of thread loss consistent with age, the original workmanship was so solid that these minor imperfections do not compromise the structural integrity of the piece. The leather has developed a beautifully worn patina that speaks to more than a century of use, adding depth and authenticity to its appearance. In the 19th century, long straps of sleigh bells like this were affixed to horse harnesses so travelers could be heard approaching through winter snow, helping prevent collisions on narrow rural roads. Over time, this cheerful sound became woven into the imagery of the holiday season and ultimately inspired the classic Christmas carol, “Jingle Bells.” Today, authentic sets like this capture the warmth and romance of Victorian winter travel and embody the nostalgia of an old-fashioned Christmas. Because of its impressive length, this sleigh bell strap lends itself beautifully to holiday decorating. Many collectors enjoy hanging it on a door so it jingles each time someone enters or exits, while others drape it across a mantel for a warm, traditional seasonal moment. It also looks wonderful wrapped around a staircase railing, stretched along a festive tablescape as a conversation piece, or even displayed on a wall as a piece of functional folk art. However it’s arranged, the authentic sound and historic character bring instant Victorian holiday charm to any space. Original 19th-century sleigh bell straps in this size and condition have become increasingly difficult to find, especially with such a full complement of bells still attached. Modern reproductions, while decorative, seldom replicate the deep, resonant sound of genuine antique brass or the rich patina only time and use can create. For lovers of Americana, equestrian history, Victorian Christmas...

Antique Brass on Leather Horse Sleigh Bells, Circa 1900's.

This vintage strand of sleigh bells is a long, graduated line of round brass bells mounted in pairs along a flat black leather strap. The bells swell in size from small ones near the...

This vintage strand of sleigh bells is a long, graduated line of round bronze-toned bells mounted in pairs along a flat, dark leather strap. The bells swell in size from small ones n...

An antique early 20th Century English equestrian three brass leather horse strap. Horse brasses have their origins in ancient Rome, where they were used to embellish horse harnesses,...

Deer Lodge Prison horsehair bridle with flat cheek, nose, and brow bands. Glass rosettes with running horses on browband and dog heads on noseband. Four candy-striped round headbands...

For your consideration, a vintage (single) N.S. Meyer horse spur with leather strap. Military buckle equestrian tack spur. Vintage (WWII, period). USA. Dimensions: .5" H x 4" W x 5....

Late 19th century English long leather horse strap. Straight leather strap with rounded top adorned with heart & oval boss above the horse brasses of a horse bust in horseshoe, the s...