Very nice black leather belt/strap with 16 large 'antique look' bells.
In traditional shamanism, bells are used for many purposes, because they can serve as houses for spirits and their sound represents the voice of those spirits. During ritual and ceremony, the sounds of the bells actively help to alter the energies in the sacred space. Their sounds and vibrations stir up the atmosphere, drive out the heavy energies, call in the helpful spirits and provide harmony and blessing.
The bells strung on this belt all have a traditional depiction of a "frog and shou" on them.
Since the frog seemingly disappears into the mud on the riverbottom each winter and then comes back to life only when spring has arrived, in its symbolism it's often associated with the Lower World. It is seen as a guide and faithful companion to these places, saving you from making wrong choices and giving protection by expelling evil forces.
On the forehead of the frog there's a depiction of the Shou-symbol, a traditional Asian symbol representing longevity; a long, vital, happy and healthy life.
The bells on this belt are made of brass and have been manually treated to attain a beautiful, dark 'antique look' patina. They have a diameter of 32 millimeters.
Total weight of the belt is 560 grams. Measured the size when closed at its smallest, the belt measures 92 centimeters. When closed at its largest, it measures 97 centimeters. Width of the leather strap is 3,3 centimeters.
A belt such as this can be worn 'as is' as part of your ritual costume, but of course the bells can also be taken off the strap to use in your personal crafting or sewing purposes.
