Let-Loose Hobbles - #52

Encore 2021

Based on Argentinian-style hobbles that a rider can release after mounting, these “let-loose” hobbles incorporate one piece of softened rawhide folded and stitched together for strength. The straps are secured in the center by a rawhide braid overlaid with three gaucho buttons, while two strands of twisted rawhide cord form each eye and attach to hardwood pegs that serve as closures. The twisted rawhide cords are joined at the top where they are laced together with rawhide and secured with a gaucho button.

Pablo Lozano, Rawhide Braider (Member)
Tandil, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Born in Buenos Aires, Pablo Lozano’s family tradition is tied to Argentina’s cattle heritage. At age 15, Lozano began studying rawhide braiding with his mentor, the late Don Luis Alberto Flores. A career rawhide braider, Lozano believes in the concept of apprenticeship as a means to educate and preserve traditional arts. He has been awarded Best of Show several times at the Sociedad Rural Argentina and is a member of their panel of judges. He frequently participates in braiding seminars and workshops in the United States and was awarded the 2015 Braider of the Year by the Academy of Western Artists.