Baldric

(Also Baldrick)

A belt or sash worn over the right or left shoulder diagonally across the body. It is often highly decorated and enriched with gems, and is used not only to sustain a sword, dagger, or horn, but also for purposes of ornament and as a military or heraldic symbol. The fashion of wearing a baldric appears to have reached its height in the 15th century.

In the United States the baldric now forms a part of the uniform of some fraternal organizations. It is still in use in some of the royal courts of Europe. (Encyclopedia Americana, Baldric)

A silk sash or leather band slung over one shoulder and around the opposite hip. In medieval times it was decorated by silver or gold bells. Later it was fastened on the left hip and carried the sword holder. (Yarwood, European Costume 281)

1. Wide decorative metal linked belt to hold dagger, worn at hip level by noblemen and soldiers from 1350 to 1400. 2. From 1400 on, belt worn diagonally from right shoulder to left hip, where sword was placed. (Calasibetta, Baldric, Baldrick)