A SILVER-GILT BELT BUCKLE, OTTOMAN PROVINCES, PROBABLY GREECE, 18TH/19TH CENTURY | Belt Buckle

composed of two slightly-curved silver plaques fitted together, surface-side gilt and richly decorated in filigree with stylised foliate scrolls and pomegranate-like details, four small hooks for fastening

In fair condition, some dents visible to internal part and two cracks to central plaque - we would recommend contacting a professional restorer to consolidate these - some oxidisation, iridescence, visible as consistent with age, section where large plaque and smaller plaque join now consolidated together, small hook later, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Highly decorative belt buckles such as this one, designed with filigree motifs and sometimes enriched with enamel and semi-precious stones, formed part of the fashionable Ottoman woman's costume in the eighteenth/nineteenth century. A variety of models existed, the present example most probably from Greece, as confirmed by a handwritten note originally with the object mentioning "Mifrolunghi" (Missolonghi in Greece). For comparable examples, see Couleurs d'orient, Arts et arts de vivre dans l'Empire ottoman, exh. cat. Villa Empain, Brussels, 18 November 2010 - 27 February 2011, pp.72-3.