Indian Kerala Silver Belt

Silver Double-Strand Chain Belt & Buckle Silver Buckle

extended

This belt, which today could also be worn as a necklace, comprises a double strand of unusually high quality hand-fashioned silver chain, and a clasp buckle with a pin that allows the belt to be opened.

The clasp is of two equal trapezoid-shaped plaques with applied silver lozenges and other motifs. Four silver mangoes are suspended form the clasp. Mangoes are a typical motif in South India to convey fertility – an appropriate motif for a belt to be worn by a young women.

A related example is illustrated in Untracht (1997, p. 244).

The belt is in fine condition. There is some old tarnishing to the clasp. The double chain that comprises the belt is surprisingly heavy in the hand and of the highest quality.

Untracht, O., Traditional Jewelry of India, Thames & Hudson, 1997.

UK art market