Petasos (nonfiction)

Achilles wearning petasos.

A petasos or petasus (Greek: πέτασος) is a sun hat of Thessalian origin worn by the ancient Greeks, often in combination with the chlamys cape.

It was usually made of wool felt, leather or straw, with a broad, floppy brim.

It was worn primarily by farmers and travellers, and was considered characteristic of rural people.

As a winged hat, it became the symbol of Hermes, the Greek mythological messenger god (Roman equivalent Mercury).

A type of metal helmet worn by Athenian cavalry was made in the shape of a petasos.

Some examples have holes around the outer edge of the brim, presumably so a fabric cover could be attached. These are known from reliefs and vase paintings, with at least one archaeological example found in an Athenian tomb.

Fiction cross-reference

• Petasos (villain)

Nonfiction cross-reference

External links:

• Petasos @ wiki.karljones.com
• Petasos @ Wikipedia