Belt Buckle

Another one of the earliest forms of belts in recorded history is the military girdle band. These were strapped around the waist and were meticulously designed to keep weapons securely in place.

Belts

Bronze Buckles - unknown - Google Arts & Culture

Belts have a rich history that dates all the way back to the Bronze Age. Originally they they were essential tools for survival. Created from readily available materials like plant fibers, softened tree bark, and animal hides, early belts served a pragmatic purpose. They were primarily used by our ancestors to carry tools and weapons, helping them to complete daily tasks and providing easy access during hunting or combat.

Gold Belt - unknown - Google Arts & Culture

The most common piece of clothing worn by men was called a kilt. The men in the picture below are wearing kilts. A kilt is a skirt that wraps around the body and is tied with a belt. It is cool and easy to wear in a hot climate. Wealthy men wore kilts made from lighter-weight linen.

Belt mounts - Unknown - Google Arts & Culture

Belt Buckle - Unknown - Google Arts & Culture

Strapping Into the History of Belts

Ramesses Girdle Originally described as a ‘linen belt’ but since at least 1913 it has been called the ‘Ramesses Girdle’. Paintings of Ramesses III show him wearing similar long lengths of cloth wrapped several times around the chest in a herringbone fashion, like a girdle, before being fastened around the waist.