Bonus episode courtesy of my new South African and Articles of Interest fans! What was the Birkin bag of the T&J era? Could someone tell the difference between a Roman and a Persian based on dress alone? Were couches and bedding like what we have today?  This episode we go deep into the color purple, marriage belts and baby tunics in a conversation all about sixth century Byzantine bling and threads thanks to the expertise of Dr. Elizabeth Dospěl Williams.  Betsy is the Curator of the Byzantine Collection at Dumbarton Oaks in Washington, D.C. Her work includes programs, publications and exhibitions exploring Byzantine dress practice, gender and aesthetics.