Gladiator clothing (was white the only color?)

[gerryj199]

Hi all,
I have been researching for a gladiator figure (a retiarius) and in looking at multiple historical reference books of actual roman mosaics (with a few remaining wall paintings included) it seems that gladiators are always shown wearing white loin cloths and padding.

Does anyone happen to know if this was just an artistic convention or are there historic references to the color of combat clothing versus parade clothing? (I know about the purple cloaks with gold braid).

Many thanks,
Gerry

 

[loosehead]

Hi Gerry
Don't think any hard or fast rule have a look at the re-enactment websites ther are a couple of very interesting ones out there
Think you have to look at thinks like is the retarius in Rome or the provinces what sort of colours could be made in the time period and what the gladiator school could afford I mean a lot of money was invested in a gladiator.
But Rome glitz and clamour Provinces trinkets and secondhand (washed no one likes to wear dirty loin cloth )sorry Aussie humour
Cheers
Chris W

 

[gerryj199]

Thanks for the reply Chris.