Conserving the legend: conservation and research of a sixteenth-century sakkos from Mount Athos

A sixteenth-century sakkos, the 'Sakkos of Ioannis Tzimiskes,' from Iviron Monastery on Mount Athos, was found to be composed of 43 textile pieces sourced from another object or objects, revealing significant insights into its structure and stratigraphy. This discovery challenges assumptions about the vestment's original form and use, offering new perspectives on its historical significance. The conservation process not only preserved the artifact but also uncovered its layered history, demonstrating the conservator's pivotal role in unraveling the narrative of such cultural heritage objects. The study highlights the importance of integrating conservation with research to elucidate the past through material evidence.

Kousoulou, T. (2013). Conserving the legend: conservation and research of a sixteenth-century sakkos from Mount Athos. Journal of the Institute of Conservation, 36(1), 18–34. https://doi.org/10.1080/19455224.2013.797357