Mantle, cloak

Definition

= a long, flowing outer garment reaching to the feet; it was generally a loose-fitting cloth that was draped around the body and held in place in the middle by a sash wrapped around the waist or some means of fastening such as pins or buttons; it was worn at all levels of society, including also priests and other religious leaders; it served more purposes than just an outer covering; women sometimes carried bowls or other implements or grain in its folds; for poorer people it also served as a covering when sleeping