Latvian Josta (Woven Belt)
Ornamental belt woven by Latvian women on a small rigid loom, patterned with geometric symbols of the sun, moon and stars and the zigzag josta motif, worn by men to hold shirt and breeches. A full-length josta measures several metres and is wound twice around the waist; its weaving is a living craft, and the Latvian National Centre for Culture keeps a register of master weavers. The belt is part of the national costume worn at song festivals, and its symbols are read as protective signs: the sun for light, the grass snake for the household, and the endless repeating band for continuity. Tradit