Children's Clothing and Protection in the Afterlife
Child’s Tunic
Egypt
ca. 300–700 CE
Wool
Jefferson University, T&CC 1987.1.16 (A–E)
This child’s tunic has many features that ensured the wearer’s smooth transition into the afterlife. The color red was very popular in children’s clothing. It was associated with protection and typically appeared near the openings of the garment to keep out corruptive forces. Animals, including fish and chickens, cover the tunic. They could have been intended as symbols of abundance and well-being, which indicate hopes for prosperity. Alternately, these lively motifs may have been intended to delight the owner, such as a child who liked animals.
