Belt - Ottoman-Bulgaria - Gallery

A digital archive showcasing the extensive collection of jewellery and adornment images shared on the former Ethnic Jewels Ning site over the years. These images have significantly enriched discussions on cultural adornment and its global dispersion.

Belt - Ottoman-Bulgaria

Posted by Peter Hoesli on February 8, 2015 at 10:39am

This is a beautifully woven Ottoman belt. It is quite rare. The problem with these belts is that once they are being deformed, one cannot put them back into shape. I have seen a similar belt in a silver shop in Amman. However, it was most probably squeezed into a drawer, etc. and lost its shape completely. The weaving is extraordinary - simple but very effective!

Comments

Jean-Marie Criel February 16, 2016 at 11:16pm

Dear Peter, I would like to ask you:

- what is the material used to weave the belt? Is it gilded silver thread?

- what is the meaning of 'Ottoman' in combination with Bulgaria? Does it refer to the style or fashion? To the period (before 1878)? To the artisan or workshop? Or to another aspect of the piece?

Thanks in advance for any answer. I must say that investigating the pictures you posted is an enrichment and a delight. Best greetings, Jean-Marie.
Peter Hoesli February 17, 2016 at 2:30am

Dear Jean-Marie;
Many thanks for your message. I was quite lucky to find this belt as it is quite rare for the below mentioned reasons. It is silver. Maybe it was gilded at some time but there are no reminders that would lead to this conclusion. This belt is woven from silver wires, around 500 in quality as many of the Balkan jewelry. The Ottomans have occupied Bulgaria for quite a long time. This piece was manufactured during this time. This is why they are called Ottoman Bulgarian. We must consider that Bulgaria was a huge country in old days, reaching as far as the Caspian Sea. Their heritage is simply amazing and so little know.... With kind regards. Peter