Images(2)

Knee Buckle

Date1740-1760

OriginAmerica (probably)

MediumSilver, Iron/Steel

DimensionsH: 1 3/8"; W: 1"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1953-243,1

DescriptionShoe buckle: rectangular frames with incised decoration; steel chapes; two straight prongs.
Label TextKnee buckles were essential jewelry for men's breeches in the 18th Century.
Men's breeches ended with a garter around the bottom of the knees. This tightened around the knee with the help of a buckle in order to keep the man’s stockings from falling down. The "T" shape of the chape or fluke, slipped into a buttonhole made at the back side of the garter. The longer section of the garter from the front of the knee went through buckle and was held in place by the tines or tongue. The buckles were removable and could be switched from garment to garment.

This pair of buckles is made of incised silver.