buckle/clasp

C/2000/2188   Copper buckle/clasp, double-plated in silver and gold. It consists of two almond-shaped convex elements with a wavy outline and with identical relief and engraved decoration. The central motif is the Persian winged dragon, holding a flower in the claw of its raised leg. Its coiled tail shapes into a flower at its tip, its body is covered with fine scales, and its tongue protrudes from its open mouth. There are two small six-leaf rosettes, one in front of the dragon and one below its body. The composition is bordered by a band of stylised floral designs. The clasp closes with a cast hook, which passes through a corresponding cast loop. When the clasp is closed, the two dragons face each other. On the reverse side, both clasp pieces have vertical bars, two and one respectively, for securing the clasp to a belt. The engraved initials and the abbreviation of a name are discernible on the bars of both pieces: Χ”ΙΩ ΣΦ'Α (Χ”IO SF’A), which can be completed as X”Iωάννου Σοφία (Χ”Ioannou Sofia).   Total length: 22 cm. Height: 9 cm. Former Collection of Pavlos Neophytou.