Khoreutês

One group of women is shown sufficiently often in “middle Byzantine” art to indicate a definite pattern of occupational costume. It is the class of khoreutai or dancing girls. This example is copied from an eleventh century manuscript.¹ The flounce pleated onto the hem of her dress is an unusual feature, but the sleeveless dress or over-dress is a ubiquitous characteristic of the stage costume of the class of professional “belly dancer” in Rômania.

Outfit constructed by Edith Castro to a pattern and designs by Timothy Dawson

Notes

1) Biblioteca Marciana Z 479, f. 12v.

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