Western belt buckles can be worn by anyone these days. Stuff Magazine lists them as one of 2001s hottest fashion accessories. Wearing steel on your body will immediately project a tough and rugged look that will accentuate any leather. However, fashion enthusiasts warn against overdoing the cowboy look and suggest mix and matching them with a modern twist to the buckle. Western belt buckles do not necessarily contain antique design; they may be drawn from simple inscriptions or liquor labels. Customizing is also very chic and can be very appealing to those who want to evoke their own personality with the traditional western. The belt buckle was often used in Greece and Rome and became an indispensable part of the Teutonic warrior's equipment, as well as the object of special care on the part of metal smiths, who ornamented many buckles with rich and intricate designs. The Germanic invaders imported animal motifs characteristic of Scythian-Sarmatian decorative arts; their belts and buckles often representing animals entwined in mortal combat. A fine example of a buckle of a heavy rectangular type decorated with filigree was found in the tomb of Childeric I, king of the Franks, who died in AD 481/482. Several 7th-century gold buckles with interlacing curvilinear patterns and cutaway tongues, now in the British Museum, London, were found in the Sutton Hoo ship burial. Throughout the Middle Ages, the buckle was used especially for ornamentation; but, during the second half of the 14th century, the knightly belt and buckle took on its most splendid form. After the early 15th century, the belt and buckle never again regained such importance. Western Belt-buckles inherit the macho and rugged culture of those, which wore the first belt and buckles- the Roman Soldier. Most Western belt buckles are made of iron and plated in silver. However, recently other materials have been put to use such as the discovery of alloys that will project a heavy look but is very light to the waist. |
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