Central Asia, Himalaya region, Tibet / Bhutan, ca. late 19th to mid-20th century CE. A beautiful high quality sterling silver belt buckle inlaid with coral and turquoise stones. This may have been a type of brooch known as a koma which was originally used to fasten women's clothing. The slightly convex rondel is extensively decorated with filigree wirework and raised scrolling motifs that form a four-headed implement known as a dorje. The dorje, also known as a vajra, is a familiar symbol of Buddhism which represents the moment of Enlightenment and lightning bolts. The buckle comes with a thick leather belt strap and wearable, the buckle verso is flat with a strap bar loop and prong. Size of buckle: 3.25" Diameter (8.3 cm); strap: 41" L x 1.6" W (104.1 cm x 4.1 cm); silver quality: 96%

Provenance: private British Columbia, Canada collection, gifted from aunt in Tucson, Arizona, USA, acquired prior to 1994

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#182729

Buckle is intact and excellent, minor wear from use. Some remaining dark patina and toning, but silver was recently polished with some white residue in recessed areas from cleaner. Staining and discoloration to the leather belt, probably not original to the buckle and could easily be replaced. Wearable as is!