Buckle
Unknown Artist
15th–17th century
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
H. 1 3/4 in. (4.4 cm); W. 1 3/4 in. (4.4 cm); thickness 1/8 in. (0.3 cm); Wt. 1 oz. (29 g)
Classification
Miscellaneous-Buckles & Ornament
Culture
European
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bashford Dean Memorial Collection, Funds from various donors, 1929
Accession Number
29.158.871
Art Historical Context
This exquisite bronze buckle, dating from the 15th to 17th century, exemplifies refined craftsmanship of European metalwork during the late medieval and Renaissance periods. Measuring just 1¾ inches square and weighing a mere ounce, its compact form belies its practical yet decorative purpose. Crafted from durable bronze—a favored medium for its malleability and corrosion resistance artifact was likely cast using techniques like lost-wax casting, allowing for intricate details suited to everyday or ceremonial use. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Arms and Armor Department and classi...