Delving into the annals of history, we uncover treasures that offer glimpses into the lives of bygone eras. Among these artifacts, medieval buckles and belt fragments stand out as tangible remnants of a time long past. In this article, we embark on a journey through the Gilbert Collection, exploring the intricacies of these fascinating relics and their significance in medieval fashion and craftsmanship.

Exploring the Gilbert Collection:
The Gilbert Collection, renowned for its extensive array of historical artifacts, offers a window into the world of medieval fashion and adornment.

Among its treasures are buckles with plates and belt fragments that provide invaluable insights into the sartorial customs of the era. One such artifact is a medieval pewter buckle plate, discovered amidst river finds and immortalized in a painting by the esteemed Belgian painter Rogier van der Weyden around 1460.

The Intricacies of Buckles and Plates:
Each buckle and plate within the Gilbert Collection is a testament to the craftsmanship and attention to detail of medieval artisans. The artifact in question, weighing 9.17 grams, features a plain undecorated D-ring buckle with a decorated plate and a long leather belt fragment. The intricately designed plate boasts two sets of horizontal lines set 10mm apart, with cross-hatching lines beneath the lower pair of lines. Notably, the plate end towards the strap exhibits two concave arches at the belt joint, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship and design.

Unraveling the Mystery:
While the buckle and plate reveal much about medieval fashion and adornment, they also pose intriguing mysteries for historians and archaeologists to unravel.

The broken pin near the buckle and missing belt mount pin hint at the artifact’s journey through time, leaving behind tantalizing clues about its use and significance. Moreover, the thinness of the leather belt fragment, approximately 100mm in length, and the unusual orientation of the raw side of the leather facing out on the front of the belt add layers of complexity to its story.

Significance and Legacy:
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, medieval buckles and belt fragments hold profound significance as tangible links to the past.

They serve as artifacts of material culture, offering insights into the social, economic, and cultural dynamics of medieval society. By studying these relics within the context of the Gilbert Collection, historians and enthusiasts alike gain a deeper understanding of medieval fashion, craftsmanship, and daily life.

Conclusion:
As we journey through the Gilbert Collection and explore the intricacies of medieval buckles and belt fragments, we are transported back in time to an era of elegance and craftsmanship.

These artifacts, meticulously preserved and studied, offer invaluable insights into the material culture of medieval society, enriching our understanding of the past and preserving its legacy for future generations to cherish and explore.