Focale

The focale (plural focalia), also known as a sudarium ("sweat cloth"),[1] was a woolen or linen scarf worn by ancient Roman military personnel.

[9] In describing the correct attire for public speaking, Quintilian advises against wearing a focale, unless required by poor health.

[11] When Suetonius describes the overly casual attire of Nero, the emperor is barefoot, unbelted, and dressed in evening wear (synthesis), with a sudarium around his neck.

[16] Cesare Vecellio (1530–1606) mentions the focale, calling it a cravata (cravat), as worn by Roman soldiers in his book on the history of fashion.

[17] It has been compared to the amice (amictus) worn by Roman Catholic priests, which is depicted from the 6th century onward, as in the Ravenna mosaics.