Brass Belt Chape, Viking Borre Style, for 18 mm Strap

Brass Belt Chape, Viking Borre Style, for 18 mm Strap

An Authentic Detail for Your Costume

In the Early Middle Ages, belts were not just practical accessories but also indicators of social status. Richly decorated buckles and chapes testified to the wealth and power of their owners. This chape is adorned with an intertwined zoomorphic and geometric motif, a characteristic feature of the Borre art style, named after a find from a ship burial in Borre, Norway. By attaching this fitting to your belt, you add a touch of luxury and historical accuracy to your attire.

How to Attach the Chape Correctly

This chape consists of two parts – a decorated front plate and a plain back plate. This construction ensures a very strong and reliable attachment to a leather strap. The process is as follows:

1. Trim the end of your leather strap (maximum width 18 mm) to a point so that it fits snugly into the shape of the chape.
2. Punch or drill two holes through the leather, aligning them with the holes in the chape.
3. Place the end of the strap between the front and back plates of the chape.
4. Insert two small rivets (not included) through the holes.
5. Peen the rivets on the back with a hammer. We recommend using washers for a stronger connection.

Pro Tip: To avoid scratching the shiny brass surface during riveting, use clamps with plastic or rubber jaws. If you only have metal clamps, place a piece of leather or thick fabric between the clamp and the chape.

Caring for Brass

Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc that will naturally oxidise over time, developing a darker, antique patina. Many users prefer this aged look. However, if you wish to maintain a bright shine, you can polish the chape at any time with a suitable metal polish and a soft cloth.

Technical Specifications