buckle/clasp

C/2003/0154   Low-quality silver buckle/clasp of two convex discs decorated with a large rosette. A small, circular element covers the fastening. The clasp is distinguished by the masterful combination of different silversmithing techniques: repoussé, engraving, casting, wirework, appliqué, and granulation. Each of the three clasp elements is set with a central paste (glass stone), red on the discs and green on the central element. Around each stone are filigree designs, enriched with applied granules and small lozenges. On the discs, the central boss is surrounded by nine repoussé petals in a circular arrangement. The rest of the surface is covered with foliate in repoussé. An additional, cast and pierced element of an anthemion flanked by symmetrical acanthus leaves, is attached to the outer extreme of both discs. On the reverse side of each disc, there are two bars of a different width, with a wavy outline on one side, for securing the clasp to a belt. The clasp comprised part of a priest's vestments.     This clasp is similar to a fire-gilded silver bridal belt clasp from Sille of Konya, now at the National Historical Museum in Athens (ind. No. 10196), which features the same elements in a simpler form (Mazarakis-Ainian and Iakobou (eds.) 1995, 98-100). It can also be compared to the clasp of the Didymoteicho bridal costume (Papantonio 1991, 120-121). Clasps no. C/2002/2624, C/2002/2623, and C/2000/2183 of the Leventis Municipal Museum Collection are variations of the same basic type.   Total length: 26 cm. Diameter: 10.5 cm. Donation from the A.G. Leventis Foundation.