Perfect for a long ride, and a work of art to boot

Maker of traditional Mongolian saddles strives to keep craft alive When cowboys from the West prepare to get into the traditional Mongolian saddle for the first time, they may think they are in for a very painful ride.

Four pieces of wood make up the compact, high frame of the Mongolian saddle. Knobs and other metal fittings are usually found on the seat, coming into contact with some of the most tender parts of a horseman's anatomy.

But for Mongolian saddle maker Zhao Xiuwen, there is nothing more suitable or beautiful for horse riding.