The Herculiani

[Robert Vermaat]

Hi Patrick,<br>
<br>
Under the subarmalis there would be less of a problem, I think. But yes, these tunics look very delicate and should not in my opinion be considered as 'normal' for the common soldier.<br>
I also think the 'less ornate' tunic would probably show more monochrome colours and less detailed decoration. We have found very beautifully decorated tunics, but I think these should be considered 'treasure', hidden or kept safe as items of value.<br>
<br>
In art, where we do see military or armed servants with beautiful tunics, these seem to be depicted as retinue of rich or powerful people, not as commoners. It may not be a coincidence that less ornate mosaics and frescos show also less detail in the clavi and orbiculi.<br>
<br>
Colours? I'd say anything. There does not seem to have been a 'uiniform' in the Late Roman army, even though with the production of clothes by the state, there could have been one better than any time before or after. But what texts we have do not seem to refer to unit or army (or military!) indentification through clothing, just by shield designs.<br>
<br>
Valete,<br>
Valerius/Robert <p></p><i></i>