Antique Belt from Transylvania, ca. 1780

This magnificent antique women’s belt, dating to circa 1780, is a rare and opulent example of Transylvanian festive costume, reflecting the rich stylistic blend of German and Hungarian traditions. Crafted from velvet and brocade, the belt features eleven round buchteln (or roses), each set with Gothic-style leaves and adorned with red or green glass stones, showcasing the region’s love for precious materials and intricate ornamentation.

The centerpiece is a heavy Baroque clasp, decorated with Augustan tendrils, which fastens with a chain closure - a detail that speaks to the ceremonial elegance of 18th-century Transylvanian dress. Measuring approx. 82 cm in length (excluding the chain), the belt is in very good condition for its age, with its structure and embellishments beautifully preserved.

This rare 18th-century Transylvanian belt is ideal for collectors of ethnographic jewelry, historical costume, or museum-quality accessories, offering a vivid glimpse into the cultural identity and artisanal mastery of one of Eastern Europe’s most storied regions.