By men an elastic linen case or chemise, made of a material which will
stretch to any size, and cling to the form, is worn next the skin. This,
reaching just below the knee, is short in the sleeves, and very
ornamental about the neck, leaving the throat bare. It is changed daily
by the poor, and twice a day by the rich. Over it is worn a tunic of
rich material, with sleeves differing from each both in form and colour.
The trousers of the men consist of a large mass of drapery of very fine
light material finer than cambric, prepared from leaves which have
passed through a certain process, and are afterwards woven. This is
wound round and round the leg. As many folds are required to protect the
body from the scorching heat, it will be seen that lightness is an
essential quality. The trouser, otherwise full, is narrow at the ankle,
where it is confined by a band of the same material, of gold or of
jewels, according to the quality of the wearer. Gloves are not worn by
men, but their trousers being so massive they can place their hands in
the ample folds when walking in the sun.
Another important article of male attire is a large piece of drapery,
which, fastened in front and on one shoulder with a jewel chain, is
carried to the back, and being attached to the opposite arm, falls in
graceful folds below one knee, where it may be fastened. It may also be
thrown back and worn as a cloak or covering; in any case it descends in
graceful folds.
The feet of our men are bare, and are rubbed with an oleaginous
preparation, which keeps them lithesome, and prevents them from being
browned by the sun. The under part of the foot is protected by a sole
secured by sandals. The hair, whether of the head or beard, is never
cut, and we have no shaving, but we have means to prevent the hair
growing on any part of the face.
The colours of the costume vary greatly; each man selects according to
his taste, but they always harmonize. To give an example. If the drapery
were crimson on the outside, the inside would be blue; the tunic, a very
rich brown; the legs of the trousers, one red the other blue.
The only ornament worn by the men is a chain of ravine metal, sometimes
plain, sometimes set with costly gems, and we have costumes all brown,
relieved by this chain alone.
Out of doors the men wear a turban or head-covering, made of a very
light material, beat out to the thinness of the finest wafer, and
repellent of heat. It is very large, that the face and eyes may be
protected from the sun; and, moreover, it is furnished with a
contrivance by which a current of air is kept constantly playing on the
top of the brain.