The Greek robes consisted of large lengths of fabric draped over the body. Except for the chiton, these robes had no seams. In order to fasten the fabric and prevent it from sliding down, long needles and clasps (fibula) similar to today's safety pins were used to stitch the fabric together over the shoulders.
Pins like these come from graves where they were attached to the clothing of the dead. However, finds from sanctuaries also reveal a large number of needles and clasps. They were offered to the goddesses together with textiles for a new garment. (AVS)
Former Karl Purgold Collection, Gotha
