Loretta reports:Following up a little on the Belle Èpoque video—
My most recent trip to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts had me taking a closer look at the Kreuzer collection of belt buckles from the late 19th & early 20th centuries and, in particular, information about the collection. The printed placard offers a good example of the difference between engraved images of fashion and real people wearing them. I think this contrast is pretty stark, and it would be more so if these weren’t models but average women, who would probably be a bit more full-figured. Then, as always, models tended to represent a fashionable ideal rather than reality, though not as extremely as the images on the catalog page.
Previously I’ve posted a garnet belt buckle as well as other objects from the VMFA’s outstanding collection, including sporting prints, Art Nouveau furniture, Art Nouveau & Art Deco jewelry (here and here), and decorative objects. These are only small samples of the offerings. The VMFA is a splendid museum, well worth a visit—or several.
Please click on images to enlarge.
I LOVE 1890s belts and buckles! From about 1890 to 1905, belt buckles were at their best: big, bold, and beautiful. Most extant belts you find are between 22 and 34 inches. That an uncorsetted range of about 23 to 38 inches, conservatively speaking. Pretty normal even today. I think it's about time for fancy belts to come back in to fashion. Funky belts are perfect for accenting curves and just plain fun!
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