dalmatiek

The dalmatic is a liturgical vestment worn by deacons and subdeacons in some Christian denominations, particularly Roman Catholicism, Anglicanism, and Lutheranism. It is the characteristic vestment of the deacon during Mass and other liturgical services. The dalmatic is essentially a tunic, typically made of linen or silk, and is usually shorter than the chasuble, reaching to about the knees.

Historically, the dalmatic evolved from the Roman dalmatica, a type of tunic worn by the inhabitants of Dalmatia. It became a liturgical vestment in the early Church and has retained its basic form for centuries. A distinctive feature of the dalmatic is its wide sleeves, which are often adorned with orphreys, which are embroidered bands. It is typically worn over the alb and beneath the stole, though in some traditions, the stole is worn over the dalmatic.

The color of the dalmatic varies according to the liturgical season or feast being observed, following the same color sequence as other vestments such as the chasuble. While historically worn by subdeacons, its use by subdeacons has become less common in many churches. The dalmatic is a symbol of the deacon's office and ministry within the Church.