On clothing of Tsar Samuel (997 – 1014)

ON CLOTHING OF TSAR SAMUEL (997 – 1014) 

Silvia Arizanova 

(Summary) 

The present paper is devoted to the information about the clothing of the Bulgarian tsar Samuel (997 – 1014). Sources indicate that it was similar to that of the Byzantine emperors, but some elements found show similarities with the Armenians and had possible Eastern influence. At the same time, the way the Bulgarian ruler dressed did not differ significantly, except for the lavish decorations and insignia, from what was known for the high-ranking Bulgarians of that time. Characteristic of the ruler’s clothing were silk, tinsel embroidery, and probably at least pearl decoration. The insignia, like those of the Bulgarian tsars Simeon and Peter who preceded him, were similar to the Byzantine ones. 

Keywords: clothing, Tsar Samuel, Bulgaria, Middle ages, Byzantium, images, Bulgarians.