Buckle (Quşaq baş)
The ornamentation of this ceramic shield is based on decorative patterns on a 17th century belt buckle from a private collection. It has a rhombus shape typical of Crimean Tatar culture and is richly ornamented. A carnation flower is engraved in the centre of the buckle. Around it there is a composition of botanical and zoomorphic motifs: tulips, flowers, conjoined horns symbols. The latter is a classical element of jewellery ornamentation in Crimean Tatar culture, typical for the work of masters of coinage and filigree techniques. The horns, conjoined in the shape of a heart with a rhombus embedded inside, were a classic element of jewellery ornamentation. The embossed lines of the decoration on the buckle resemble twisted wire. The curved filigree elements complement the floral ornaments by replicating the shapes of poplar trees.
The ceramic shield is decorated on the basis of the original composition of the decoration on the belt buckle. The symbol of the mihrab arches, traditional botanical and zoomorphic ornaments are used. The whole composition is arranged in a circle around the central part. The main colour of the work is an accent red, while the ornaments are in blue with white outlines.
