Fine / Complete Hallstatt Bronze Age Bronze Belt

Central Europe (Germany, Austria), Hallstatt Culture, ca. 1000 to 700 BCE. A beautiful bronze belt, composed of dozens of identical cast bronze pieces, each with a series of hemispherical forms interspersed with thin bars. Two narrow buckles with a trio of loops on each are at the terminals. Each piece has four bar-like openings on its back for suspension and all would likely once have been sewn onto leather or cloth. For the Hallstatt people, as with many other cultures, belts had the practical purpose of holding up clothing - but they also signified the status of their wearer. A fine, richly made bronze belt like this one would have been worn by an elite member of society. Size: 42.5" L x 2.2" W (108 cm x 5.6 cm)

The Hallstatt culture developed from the earlier Urnfield culture, and would progress into the later La Tene culture, which is often called Celtic. However, these names and classifications have been imposed upon ancient peoples by archaeologists and historians (Hallstatt, for example, takes its name from the type site, which is located in Austria southeast of Salzburg). 2700 years ago, these people lived in small groups, probably loosely confederated for trading purposes but engaging in frequent warfare. Elites controlled powerful hillforts and revered the horse, traveling by and perhaps warring with chariots. They were buried with bronze finery like this belt.

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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#152900
Condition Report: Bronze components are restrung on two modern leather cords (at top and bottom of belt).The vast majority of the bronze components are in excellent condition, with a few tiny losses from peripheries. Rich dark green and reddish patina on many surfaces.