BYZANTINE AND ABYSSINIAN CLERGY - Ritual Dress & Regalia - 1876 Chromolithograph

This original 1876 chromolithograph from Le Costume Historique by Auguste Racinet presents a comparative study of religious costume in the Byzantine Empire and Abyssinia (Ethiopia). The figures, rendered in rich detail and warm sepia tones, depict high-ranking clergy in ornate ceremonial robes, wearing elaborately embroidered vestments and jeweled crowns, and holding symbolic staffs and crosses. The central focus includes a monumental processional cross and liturgical accessories that reflect ancient Christian iconography.

Each costume reveals deep traditions of faith and authority, from the layered garments of patriarchs to the towering crowns and hand crosses used in processions and coronations. The intricate patterns and inscriptions illustrate how Christian ritual garments evolved independently yet shared symbolic elements across Eastern and African traditions. Published in Paris by Firmin-Didot, this authentic plate measures approximately 7.5 x 10.5 inches and is blank on the reverse.