In ancient Egypt, clothing served not only as a means of self-expression but also as a status symbol that distinguished individuals from all social classes. The garments were imbued with various meanings, ranging from religious meaning to the identity of the wearer.

The powerful priestly class in charge of the Egyptian temples used animal skins to cover themselves, symbolizing their role in protecting the good Ra and becoming the color of the pharaoh.

The lower priestly class, in charge of maintaining the temples and carrying out semi-religious functions, wore various materials available to everyone, such as plant fibers or semi-precious stones, which showed their devotion to the gods and the importance of their function. in society.

In addition to fulfilling religious and social purposes, clothing was also practical, with the most common material available to everyone being papyrus, a reed that grew on the banks of the Nile River.

Papyrus, along with clothing made from animal skins or semi-precious stones, reflected the creativity and ingenuity of the ancient Egyptians. They were symbols of purity and respect, indicating the wearer’s reverence for the gods and the importance of his role in society.

The colors of dresses and garments, including yellow, green, blue, red, and white, had various symbolic meanings. Yellow represented the eternal, imperishable and indestructible. Red became associated with the powerful god Ra and became the color of the pharaoh. Green symbolized rebirth and fertility. Blue represented the skies and waters of the Nile. White was the color of purity, cleanliness and happiness, often used to represent the deities Osiris and Maat.

Sandal makers, gold leaf, New Kingdom, 1479-1425 BC Photo, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Public Domain

A gold belt or tocara, New Kingdom, 1479-1425 BC. Photo, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Public Domain

Sandals and golden toe caps, 1479-1425 BC. Photo, Metropolitan Museum of Art

Children’s leather sandals, New Kingdom, 1479-1458 BC. Photo, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Public Domain

Sandal maker, Ramesseum Tomb, New Kingdom, 1504-1425 BC. Photo, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Public Domain

These garments were both functional and symbolic, and reflected the values and beliefs of the ancient Egyptians. Clothes were not just a matter of practicality; It was a way of expressing one’s identity and social standing, as well as showing devotion to the gods and the principles of Maat, the ancient Egyptian concept of truth, balance, order, harmony, law, morality, and justice.

Overall, clothing in ancient Egypt was a rich tapestry of materials, colors and symbols that played an important role in the culture, religion and social structure of this remarkable civilization.