Very beautiful (and very heavy) Nepalese shamanic belt. From vintage origin.
This is a very elaborate version of the the more simple bell straps that are used as an intricate part of the attire of traditional Nepalese shamans, also known as 'ghanta mala' (bell mala).
The cotton fabric base of this belt has been fully covered on both sides with all kinds of beads, shells and bells. Such as; rudraksha beads, glass beads, cowrie shells, conch shell pieces and bronze and copper bells.
Many materials used in this belt are actually older than the belt itself. Look for example at the beautiful old 5-mukhi rudraksha beads that have become black with age, something that is believed to have increased their potency.
Total length of this belt is approximately 95 centimeters, measured only the decorated part. On both endings of the belt a 40 centimeters long piece of cotton cord can be used to tie the belt.
This belt has a heavy weight of 1745 grams. Being from vintage origing it shows some signs of its age and previous usage (some of the fragile coneshells are a bit damaged for example), but overall it is still in good condition.
