This is a pair of authentic cut steel shoe buckles which date to the mid-1800s or earlier.  The only mark is MADE IN FRANCE on the bar on the back of each.

Shoe buckles were worn by both men and women as early as the beginning of the 18th century and were sometimes adorned with gemstones.  However, due to its durability and beauty, cut steel became a popular material.  I see a lot of cut steel buckles, buttons, and pieces of jewelry described as containing marcasite.  However, the faceted pieces that look like marcasite are actually polished steel just like the "beads" that make up the rest of the piece.

Cut steel faded in popularity around 1900 when machinery became available that could turn out intricate steel pieces that had previously been produced by hand for a fraction of the price.

SIZE:  Each of these buckles is about 2 3/8" by 2".

BACKGROUND:  These buckles are part of a jewelry collection I purchased some years ago that included unusual pieces that would not necessarily be worn but might be incorporated into a display of rare jewelry items.

CONDITION:  Because of the double layer construction and the strength of steel, cut steel pieces rarely bend or suffer cuts or chips, but they are subject to rusting if they get wet.  One of these buckles has a small amount of rust on one short end (see close-up photos).  #16819

I've been selling online for 24 years and guarantee that the information in my listings is accurate and that I will get your item in the mail very quickly with free standard US shipping.  I accept returns for any reason but do not do partial refunds.