Women’s belt
Zhetysu. Leather, metal, carnelian, carving, stamping, silver inlay. A. Kasteyev National Museum of Arts of the Republic of Kazakhstan
Aiyel beldigi (women’s belt). The belt belongs to the category of waist and fastening ornaments in women’s costume and serves both a utilitarian and a decorative-status function. Unlike its male counterparts, the composition is designed for the even distribution of decorative elements along the entire length of the piece, which emphasises its aesthetic role within the costume ensemble.The construction comprises a leather base to which numerous rectangular metal plates are affixed, arranged in a strict, rhythmic row. The end pieces of the belt are formed by large plates with elaborate ornamentation, which serve as fastenings. The overall composition is linear and frieze-like in character, with an emphasis on symmetry and the repetition of motifs.The ornamental scheme consists mainly of floral and geometric motifs, executed using a silver-engraving technique against a dark metallic background. The contrast between the light ornamentation and the dark background enhances the piece’s graphic impact. The central decorative elements feature a complex composition with circular and spiral shapes, which is characteristic of South Kazakh traditions.Technologically, the piece demonstrates a combination of several techniques: stamping forms the basis of the ornament, carving refines the details, and silver engraving creates the decorative pattern and visual contrast.Overall, the belt reflects the enduring tradition of artistic design in women’s costume from the Zhetysu region, where rhythmically organised ornamentation plays a significant role, emphasising the wearer’s social status and aesthetic preferences.