Description:

AN OTTOMAN NIELLO AND GILT BELT, TURKEY, 19TH CENTURY
Turkey, 19th century

Description:
A striking Ottoman belt featuring gilt metal plaques with fine niello work and repoussé decoration, arranged over a broad leather or fabric base. The symmetrical buckle displays stylised palmettes and floral motifs framed within arched cartouches. Additional decoration includes raised round bosses and foliate scrolls, enhancing the belt’s ceremonial splendour. A set of attached chains and pendants adds further decorative flourish.

Belts of this type were worn as emblems of rank or distinction, often part of formal court or military attire. The contrast of black niello with gold detailing exemplifies the Ottoman mastery of metalwork and refined aesthetics.

Dimensions: Length: 75 cm; Weight: 320 g

Comparable examples:

  • A similar Ottoman niello and gilt belt sold at Bonhams, Islamic and Indian Art, 25 October 2022, Lot 164, for £5,737.

  • An Ottoman ceremonial belt with niello decoration achieved £6,250 at Sotheby’s, Arts of the Islamic World, 30 April 2019, Lot 88.

  • A related example featuring chains and niello plaques sold at Christie’s, Art of the Islamic and Indian Worlds, 27 October 2022, Lot 94, for £5,000.

Note:
Ottoman belts combined utility and symbolism. Worn by military officers, court officials, or high-ranking individuals, these pieces not only held garments in place but also conveyed prestige, wealth, and authority.

 

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May 6, 2025 1:00 PM BST
London, United Kingdom

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
£0 £99 £5
£100 £199 £10
£200 £499 £20
£500 £999 £50
£1,000 £1,999 £100
£2,000 £4,999 £200
£5,000 £9,999 £500
£10,000 £19,999 £1,000
£20,000 £49,999 £2,000
£50,000 £99,999 £5,000
£100,000 £199,999 £10,000
£200,000 £499,999 £20,000
£500,000 £999,999 £50,000
£1,000,000 + £100,000