Belt clasp

Traditional jewellery from the south German region often employs rich curling patterns. Filigree is one of the most characteristic elements, but jewellery made from sheet silver also uses the same swirling scrolls and flowers. This clasp is mainly made from silver and silver-gilt in baroque curls, but there are small frames of silver-gilt filigree round each of the large pastes in the centre. The swirling shape of the petals on these frames is typical of filigree from the region, and can be found on buttons, choker clasps and hair pins, as well as clasps like this. Red was the favourite colour for gems in traditional jewellery in the region.

This clasp would have been worn by a woman with her Sunday dress. Although there is no standard pattern for traditional belt clasps in south Germany, every element of this clasp confirms that that is what it is.