Antique armor belt of a Tibetan warrior, circa early 18th century. Exceptional museum quality piece in its rarity. It is made of heavy hide leather with four curved and profiled iron plates. Each plate is inlaid with silver with intricate geometric ornament. The condition of this belt reflects its age and its essential use as military armor, please examine the pictures carefully. The two steel plates in the middle are 6" (15.2 cm) long. The two shorter plates on the sides are 3" (7.6 cm) long. The belt's current closure clasp was added much later. It seems to have been repaired at some point in the past: the middle section of the piece is sewn together with a thick thread.
Measurements:
Length: 21.5" (54.5 cm).
Width: 1" (2.5 cm).
Larger silver plate is 6" (15.2 cm) long
Smaller silver plate is 3" (7.6 cm) long
Weight: 11.3 oz (322 gr)
The culture of Tibet is usually associated with deep spirituality of the Dalai Lama and with the compassionate nature of Tibetan Buddhism. However, a deeper look into Tibetan history reveals regular and extended periods of intense military activity from the 7th up until the middle of the 20th century. Many excellent examples of Tibetan arms and armor can be found in museum collections.
