The skaramangion ( Greek: σκαραμάγγιον) was a caftan-like tunic in the Byzantine Empire.
The garment was likely of Persian origin, and took the form of a long-sleeved tunic, worn belted, with slits on front and back or the sides, indicating a likely origin as a rider's garment. [1] [2]
The garment was popular among Byzantine courtiers, and became the main everyday court uniform of the middle Byzantine period, along with the sagion cloak. [1] The Byzantine emperors alone had the right to wear skaramangia of imperial purple, but red and golden variants were also worn by emperors. [1] Surviving depictions show the garment made of silk, with gold armbands and a gold border along the hem and slits. [1]
According to Liutprand of Cremona, skaramangia were used as diplomatic gifts by the emperors. [1]