Belt Buckle - Ottoman - Gallery

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Belt Buckle - Ottoman

Posted by Peter Hoesli on October 30, 2015 at 9:42am

This is a very unusual belt buckle and I believe that it originates in Turkey. Featuring Arabic inscriptions on both sides, the buckle is rather light and delicate but made in high silver.

Comments

howah October 30, 2015 at 5:55pm

Stunner
Linda Pastorino December 11, 2015 at 4:28pm

i like the textile , is it a dress? very beautiful color !
Betty December 11, 2015 at 9:45pm

Very interesting piece, Peter, and indeed hard to place. Let us know if and when you find out more. Nice and well-chosen background... Best wishes, Betty
Peter Hoesli December 12, 2015 at 3:37am

Dear Linda and Betty; Many thanks for your comments. The background is a rectangular Ottoman cushion - silk with silver thread embroidered. The light blue color of fabric cannot often be seen. I am not sure whether the fabric was always a decorative cushion. It could also be seen as a cushion from a discarded dress. On the other hand, the Ottomans have used such fabric, but mostly embroidered German velvet, in order to store their more delicate linen/clothes. Most of these fabrics, which have survived the many years of use, are turned now into decorative cushions or antique chair upholsteries. On all the fabrics, the color plays an important role. Black is most commen and purple most probably the least common. Light blue is also rather rare and hence, expensive. With kind regards. Peter
Linda Pastorino December 12, 2015 at 2:09pm

Hi Peter ,

I have /had sold many pieces of Ottoman cloths and textiles in the past and realized that it also could be a cushion or wrap for textiles. The color I have most often seen is purple and powder blue, yellow , and pink are very hard to find now. You'll see when my web site is done , i have several Ottoman garments and textiles playing supporting roles to the other material on the site .. The buckle is a hard one to pin down. As i have been looking at many photos of these types of belts being worn, it gets confusing since many that look like this also are seen in the Caucuses. Since the Ottomans were so important over such a large area, it's often these mixes of cultures that influence design that i find most interesting.