Nine brass fittings on bright red cowhide leather. This belt follows the model of the Appenzell traditional belt – a form of traditional costume from Eastern Switzerland, which is derived from the studded suspenders of the herdsmen's costume. We found it at the Caritas flea market in Baden near Vienna.
The Fittings
Cows with cowbells, a herdsman with his dog, plus ornamental rosettes with dark-backed fields – this is the classic motif sequence of this type of belt. The brass plates are stamped, reworked with fine punch lines, and riveted to the leather with small brass pins; the rivet heads are visible on the inside. Nine fittings in total, plus the curved brass buckle.
Leather and Workmanship
Cowhide leather, brightly colored red on the top, with the inside left natural and rough. A fine embossed line runs along both edges. The size number 85 is handwritten on the inside. No manufacturer's mark is present.
Measurements
- Total length: 85 cm
- Width: 3 cm
- Suitable for waist circumference: approx. 67–78 cm
- Number of brass fittings: 9
- Size mark on the inside: 85
Condition
Good, worn vintage condition. The leather is stable and pliable, the buckle is fully functional. The red is slightly faded at the belt end, and the leather shows pressure marks and creases in the buckle area. Dark tarnished spots are visible on the buckle. The row of holes shows clear signs of use. Sold as is – please view all photos, as they are part of the description.
Dating
This belt style has been produced almost unchanged for decades, so the style alone does not allow for a precise date. Based on the condition of the leather, coloring, and workmanship of the fittings, we estimate the piece to be from approximately the 1960s to 1980s. This is an estimate, not a proven date: Vintage, not antique.
Origin
The motif sequence of herdsman, cows, and rosettes clearly originates from the Appenzell canon of forms. Since there is no manufacturer's mark, the workshop cannot be proven: Such belts were produced in Appenzell manufactories as well as in Austrian and Bavarian traditional costume workshops. This piece was found in Lower Austria.
How to Wear It
With traditional costume, leather trousers, or a dirndl. Equally good over a simple wool dress, with straight jeans, or as an eye-catcher on a coat. If you don't want to wear it, hang it on a wooden hook on the wall – the fittings will also catch the eye there.
Shipping
Shipping from Austria, carefully packaged. The price is for 1 piece.
Baden bei Wien, Caritas flea market. An entire alpine pasture parades on this belt: first the cows, then the herdsman with his dog, with rosettes like resting points in between. Whoever buckled it on wore a story around their waist that was older than themselves.
An alpine procession around the waist — Things with Soul · VintageAustriaShop
