Leather Belt with Hand-Forged Buckle

Early Gothic Leather Belt with Hand-Forged Buckle

Historical Context and How to Wear the Belt

During the Early Gothic period, roughly in the 13th and 14th centuries, leather belts were an absolutely essential part of clothing for both men and women. They served not only to gird loose tunics and dresses but were the main load-bearing element for all personal items – from weapons to coin pouches, since clothing back then lacked pockets. The hand-forged iron buckle on this belt, ending in elegant spirals (volutes), is often referred to as lyre-shaped and belongs among the typical artefacts of this era. A Gothic belt was traditionally worn quite long. After passing it through the buckle, the loose end of the strap was tucked behind the belt from below and left to hang down freely, creating an effective and historically typical knot that also prevented accidental unfastening.

Care for the Leather Belt and Forged Buckle

This belt is hand-crafted from genuine natural leather. Minor variations in colour and surface texture are its natural characteristics, making each piece a unique original. To ensure the leather serves you for many years, remains supple, and does not crack, we recommend regularly treating the strap with a high-quality leather balsam containing beeswax. The iron buckle is hand-forged and may be subject to corrosion, especially if you get wet at an event. Never dry the belt directly near a blazing fire or on a hot radiator. Let wet leather and the buckle dry naturally at room temperature, and subsequently wipe the metal part lightly with a cloth soaked in oil (e.g., linseed or gun oil) to prevent rusting.

To perfectly complete your period costume, we highly recommend acquiring a leather pouch in the same colour of leather and a sturdy scabbard for your dagger to accompany this belt.

Technical Specifications of the Gothic Belt