Top of a Byzantine Ivory Casket, 11-12th Centuries


A detail of the Patzinaks (Pechenegs) on a Byzantine Ivory Casket


The front of the Byzantine Ivory Casket      The back of the Byzantine Ivory Casket



Referenced on p20 MAA-89 Byzantine Armies 886-1118 by Ian Heath & Angus McBride:
A number of 10th-12th-century ivory caskets depict figures such as these. They fairly certainly represent Asiatic mercenaries, probably Patzinaks. The apparent 'trousered' tunic is probably a long coat split at front and back for riding. Note the pointed felt or fur cap, characteristic of Patzinak dress.



A Pecheneg Auxiliary Cavalryman from Armies of the Dark Ages 600-1066 by Ian Heath based on this Byzantine Ivory Casket.
Back to a Byzantine Ivory Casket, 11-12th Centuries