Early Byzantium, formerly Eastern Roman Empire, modern day Turkey, ca. 6th to 8th century CE. An impressive bronze belt buckle with an elaborate enameled floral decorative program in beautiful hues of sky blue, jade green, white, and yellow ochre, comprised of two pieces that link together via a hook and loop on the back side. So intricate, it brings to mind the famous mosaics of the Byzantine Empire. Beyond the elaborate surface decoration is the finessed form with its finial-shaped termini and three raised circular areas, each adorned with a many-petaled large enameled flower. Belt buckles of such elaborate stylings, the likes of which were also seen in Byzantine jewelry, began to appear by the 5th century CE, precisely when trousers began to replace the toga, a development thanks to the cultural influences of peoples migrating from the north. Beyond this function, belts with elaborate ornamental buckles, particularly examples of early Byzantium like this one, were an important accessory as they indicated the wearer's social position, wealth, and rank. Size: 7-1/2" x 3-1/2" (19.1 x 8.9 cm)

Provenance: Ex-private New Jersey collection acquired in the 1970's

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#111055

Expected wear with minor losses to enamel. Small crack on lower section of right half. Possible missing inlays to perforations at central raised circular motifs. Overall very good.