Belts were status symbols. They had a practical function and came in a range of splendid and plainer designs. The belts, known as “Ranzen”, were often more than twenty centimetres in width, and had a tube for holding coins, which was also known as a “Geldkatze” (or money pouch). Belts from the 17th and early 18th century were often decorated with tin rivets. 

The practice of decorating them with feather quill embroidery began more than 200 years ago. Embroidery was done at home, using split peacock, goose or chicken feathers. 

Belts with brightly-coloured embroidery on the straps are rarer. 

The designs feature many Christian symbols, but they also include the owners’ names. 

Men also had a cutlery holder on their belts. If you wanted to eat in an inn, you had to bring your own cutlery with you.