Zoster (costume)

The zoster ( gr ζωστήρ ) was a Greek belt.

Description and Use

Zoster was a belt made of leather, which was closed with a buckle made ​​of bronze. Men carried him in times of war over the tunic or on the chiton. He also fulfilled the purpose of the unity of chiton and himation. He was later also worn by women.

History

Homer mentions the zoster in the Odyssey, where the belt was used by the Greek warriors. This belt came in the 6th century BC and was first used on military purposes. In the Hellenistic period it was also worn by women.