Dance bells II

These pieces were made for a Native American dancer from Arizona. Each of the ankle straps features four traditional Swedish bells from 2 1/8" to 2 3/4" diameter. The straps buckle in back for a secure fit. The firm, wide leather used in these straps will help to reduce the pressure and friction from these heavy cast-brass bells.

The leg straps have 15 small cast-brass bells per strap in an alternating pattern of "band" bells and unusual "square" bells. The design for the square bells was patented by G.W. Goff in 1879. The band bells also date to that era.

The edges of the leg straps were cut with a special pinking cutter in a decorative zig-zag pattern. The loop at the top of each strap slips over the dancer's waist belt. The leg strap drapes down the outside of the leg. The lower end of the strap buckles onto a dee attached to the side of each ankle strap.

This particular item is a custom, one-of-a-kind project made for a past client. Items in this Custom Projects section are for information only; they are not available for regular sale.