Roman Belts: Elegance and Meaning in Ancient Rome
The most iconic Roman belt, without a doubt, is the Roman military cingulum or cingulum. This belt is characterized by its several vertical strips and its decoration with metal insignia that represented the hierarchy of its owner. In this article, we will explore the evolution and importance of Roman belts throughout the history of ancient Rome.
The Studies of Joaquín Aurrecoechea
In 2001, Joaquín Aurrecoechea published a book titled "Roman Belts in Hispania of the Lower Empire", where he highlighted the relevance of these accessories in Roman society. The book's main objective was to propose a classification system for Roman belts, discuss the evidence for their chronology, identify their possible area of manufacture, and determine for whom they were intended.
The Roman Belt as an Accessory
Roman belts were not only functional items, but also expressions of art and style. In late Roman Hispania, belts became a representative form of goldsmithing. They can be divided into three broad categories based on their origin: "non-Hispanic," "pseudo-Hispanic" and "Hispanic."
Military Belts
"Non-Hispanic" girdles were worn by Roman troops and government officials outside of Hispania, from the late 4th century to the early 5th century. Some of these girdles were found in military installations and were associated with settlements occupied by Roman troops. the Notitia Dignitatum.
"Pseudo-Hispanic" Belts
"Pseudo-Hispanic" belts were regional variations of contemporary military cinctures used throughout the Empire in the 4th century. However, they had anachronistic characteristics that indicated their local origin.
"Hispanic" Cingulums
The "Hispanic" cingulums were an indigenous form that was not documented outside the Iberian Peninsula. They represented a continuity with the world of the early military empire and reflected a unique taste of Hispanic society.
The Roman Belt Rheingönheim
A curious example of a Roman military belt is the "Rheingönheim Roman Belt," found in Rheingönheim, Germany, which dates back to the 1st century AD. Unlike cingulums, this belt is characterized by not having flaps. It was made of leather and the plates were made of tinned brass.
Curious Questions about Roman Belts
What function did the metal insignia on Roman belts have?
The metal insignia on the belts represented the hierarchy and status of the owner, being a symbol of prestige.
Why were the Roman belts divided into "non-Hispanic," "pseudo-Hispanic," and "Hispanic" categories?
This classification was based on the origin and design characteristics of the belts, which helped identify their use and provenance.
What differentiated military belts from civilian belts in ancient Rome?
Military belts often had a more ornamental and representative function, while civilian ones were simpler and more functional.
What was the importance of belts in Roman fashion and culture?
Belts not only served a practical function, but were also symbols of status and style in Roman society.
What did Joaquín Aurrecoechea's study reveal about the Roman belts in Hispania?
The study provided a classification and deeper understanding of the diversity and importance of Roman belts in the region.
What is the relevance of the "Rheingönheim Roman Belt" in the history of Roman belts?
This belt is a unique example that shows the diversity of designs and materials used in ancient Rome and their influence on fashion.
Roman belts bear witness to the sophistication and complexity of Roman society, where fashion and symbolism were intertwined. Discover more about these fascinating accessories and their impact on fashion history.
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