2009 Record shot by L. Baumgarten. Buckles: 1964-297,3-4.

Images(2)

Knee buckle

Date1750-1785

OriginEngland (probably); worn in America, New York

MediumSilver, steel, rose gold, glass, foil, gold (gilding)

DimensionsOH: 1/8"; OW: 1 1/2"; OL: 2".

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1964-297,4

DescriptionOval steel kneebuckle with open center with inside edge of engraved pinchbeck round and rectangular brilliants radiate from this forming scalloped outside edge; hinged, anchor shape with two prongs attached to underside at center.
Label TextAccording to family tradition, these buckles were handed down in the Van Rensselaer-Sanders family of New York. Family members wore them at their weddings as late as 1922. Note the T-shaped anchor fitting on the back to slip through a buttonhole in the breeches knee band.

Knee buckles secured a gentleman’s breeches just below the kneecap.
ProvenanceBuckles acquired in black shagreen case inscribed Eliza Van Renesselaer in ink on silk lining. According to family tradition recorded by Anna Lee Sanders in 1922, they were worn by Philip and Maria Van Renesselaer at their wedding in 1768 and by J. Glen Sanders and Pearl S. Green at their wedding in 1922.

Exhibition(s)