I have a thing for collecting saddles, ones that are just different or have an interesting history. My old mare has
nixed a bunch of em, she really lets me know if one doesn't suit her. As much as I like accumulating them, if I can't ride it, down the road it goes. This is my latest, built about 25 years ago in Texas for a man who did Texas Ranger and Confederate living history. Got to ride it about 4 miles yesterday morning,
looking like the boss approves. I love how it rides, but need to lose a little beer gut - dang it's a tight between me and the saddle horn

I'd call that a minimalist saddle. looks good to me!!!

No flank?

No Sir, it came with a crupper, but the man I got it from never used it. I probably won't either.
I've always rode gaited horses, never thrown a rope, so I've
hardly ever used a flank girth on anything.

Did get a period correct halter, lead strap, link strap, headstall and reins, dragoon style breast collar, and saddlebags with it though

That's pretty darned interesting. Would love to see it on the horse if you get the chance to snap a pic.

Good score!

A real nice example of a Hope style saddle. There was about a 1/2 dozen of them in our living history group and I got a chance to try them out.
Good ride.

For rowdy riding a surcingle was used.