10 Roman Bronze Belt Buckles, Clasps & Attachments (Auction 2026-06-05, Lot 170)

$321.25

Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A varied group of ten Roman belt components including buckles, clasps, attachment fittings, and a decorative hook, cast in bronze and related copper alloys with additional examples in brass, tin alloy, and lead alloy. The assemblage includes several ring and frame buckles with central bars, a large D-shaped buckle with projecting tongue mount, smaller fastening rings, a swivel attachment, and a hooked suspension fitting likely used for securing tools, pouches, or personal items to a belt. Belt fittings such as these formed an essential part of Roman dress and equipment. Soldiers, travelers, and civilians alike relied on belts not only to secure garments but also to suspend knives, keys, money purses, and other daily necessities. The variety of forms represented here reflects the functional diversity of Roman belt hardware, while the use of different copper-based alloys illustrates the wide range of casting practices employed by Roman metalworkers. Size of largest: 2.6″ L x 2.4″ W (6.6 cm x 6.1 cm)

Groups of utilitarian fittings like this offer a practical glimpse into the everyday mechanics of Roman attire and personal equipment.

Publication: Not recommended for wear due to lead content.

Provenance: private Dayton, Maryland, USA collection; ex-private F. B. collection, Maryland, USA, acquired between 1990 to 2010

Condition: Damaged. Most are fragmentary and not functional with expected weathering to surfaces commensurate with age. Rich patina throughout. Not recommended for wear due to lead content.