also: あんが
noun
saddle tree
The rigid frame of a saddle, typically made of wood or metal, to which the leather and other parts are attached. A specialized term used in equestrian contexts.
鞍橋が壊れたので、新しい鞍を買わなければならない。
The saddle tree broke, so I have to buy a new saddle.
伝統的な和鞍の鞍橋は木で作られている。
The saddle tree of a traditional Japanese saddle is made of wood.
Rare on'yomi reading; not commonly used in modern Japanese.
鞍 (くら) refers to the entire saddle, while 鞍橋 (くらぼね) specifically denotes the internal frame or tree.
Compound of 鞍 (くら, 'saddle') and 骨 (ほね, 'bone'), with rendaku voicing. The kanji 橋 ('bridge') and 瓦 ('tile') are likely ateji or variant spellings for the same word.