Paludamentum
Paludamentum (Latin: paludamentum) is a Roman military cloak worn by both soldiers and officers of the ancient Roman army, as well as emperors. It is difficult to identify clear differences between the paludamentum and other Roman cloaks, such as the sagum, since their classification is quite vague and clearly bears the imprint of a modern view on this issue. Nevertheless, it is generally accepted that the paludamentum was longer, of better quality, and had less dense fabric, which allowed for more beautiful draping. It was also worn not only on the shoulders, but often wrapped around the hips like a scarf, after which one end was thrown onto the left arm. The emperor's mantle evolved from the paludamentum later on.
The classic paludamentum was made from a rectangular piece of fabric and fastened with a fibula on the left shoulder. It was more of a distinguishing sign than of practical use. Often, Roman emperors were depicted in it on coins and monuments.
Bust of Septimius Severus in paludamentum. Late 2nd, early 3rd century AD
Patterns of Roman cloaks found
