The Arbëresh Brezi that we propose presents an elaborate and refined manufacture typical of the late 19th century, made by silversmiths of the "cintari mastery" of Palermo. It has no punches. The shield of this Brezi is finely crafted and has very elegant details. A hint of gilding enhances the detailed figure of Saint George which hides an apse with refined rhomboidal elements that make up the wall while the upper part is made up of segments that converge in the centre. Two smooth columns and an arch surround the apse. The shield features refined decorative elements that triumph in the upper part with the putti supporting the slender crown with festoons.

The Brezi is a solid silver belt made up of perforated plates, which can sometimes have gilding, which are connected together by slender cylindrical hinges that allow them to be articulated. The two ends of the belt attach to a central element which acts as a buckle but which is in fact a plate made differently from the previous ones and of much larger dimensions which is often called a shield.
The origins of Brezi are remote and its use was widespread in various Mediterranean and Middle Eastern populations. Usually the increasingly larger buckle or shield was flat and could be perforated, chiseled or with applications. In the world that is under Islamic influence, the buckle always presents references to the spousal bond with the presence of the central "butterfly knot". Differently, in the world that is under Christian influence there are almost always references to hagio-iconographical devotional figures.
 
The Brezi began to appear in Sicilian manufacturing as early as the 15th century. and has a rapid diffusion.
It was adopted in the 18th century as a fundamental accessory of the traditional female costume of Piana degli Albanesi, so much so that it was its most identifying element as well as the symbol of the renewing lineage.
In the Piana degli Albanesi tradition, Brezi is given by a man to his fiancée before marriage and becomes a family heritage that is passed down from generation to generation.
 
The Arbëresh Brezi, in consideration of its high religious and artistic value, represents a precious heritage to be passed down in the family or to be included in a collection. For this reason it is accompanied by a detailed photographic certificate of authenticity which certifies its origin and originality.
The shipment is taken care of down to the smallest details and with maximum protection, using only couriers specialized in the movement of works of art.
 
For more detailed information you can write to info@visitpiana.com