Key Patterns | Leather Belt

Design

This one of a kind product was created by Villkat Arts exclusively for Northern Fire. Choose from black with brown relief (as shown on the model) or entirely brown, which is a much more subtle option (shown in the 4th image).

With a design based on key patterns found in Pictish and Insular Celtic art, Ash has worked with modern artisans to create a way to wear ancient designs in the current day.

Insular art is a term that is used in casual discussion about ancient art styles as well as deep academic use. It's loosely defined as a way to view the art from the British Isles that has been blended (native Celtic art, Saxon art, and Viking art) but then highly concentrated within a specific space to create a unique style.

Within the Northern European world, it often refers to the art crafted in the Medieval world, usually created by monks within highly valuable manuscripts.

Key features of this style are knotwork, winding animals, and tangled individuals wound about vegetal tendrils. You also find key patterns, like these, winding around the edges of manuscripts and even carved into stone.

The most famous examples of this style can be found in The Book of Kells and The Lindesfarne Gospels. Pictish stones also often feature key patterns around the edges and framing their iconography.

Material & Make

The design of these belts is created by Ash to feature ancient designs. They are made by laser-cutting the pattern into the leather, which is why these are a more affordable option. They are genuine leather.

The buckle itself is solid metal with snaps, so it can be changed out by the owner if another buckle is desired.

About The Artist

Known as Villkat Arts in his tattoo work, Ash is celebrated for his ability to communicate the shamanistic and spiritual components of the ancient world through his artistry. With a focus on Celtic and Nordic symbolism, Ash’s intention and energy shines through in each of his works, creating a connection between the viewer (or wearer) and the depth of meaning within these art styles. The journey of re-discovering his Northern European heritage is part of Ash’s artistic journey and can be seen in his woodwork, pyrography, painting, and tattoo work.

You can see more of Ash's artwork on Northern Fire here.

Size & Dimensions

The length of the Key Patterned belt is 102 cm (40 inches) from the end to the edge of the buckle. It will fit a small waist, approximately 30-35 inches (around 76-89cm) give or take a bit.

This is a small size, please account for the fact that 40 inches does not mean that it will fit a 40 inch waist, that is the length of the belt itself.

We recommend measuring the belts you own and that fit you before you decide to purchase this item.