in the Byzantine court were characterised by the colours purple and white, and a rich decoration in pearls. In detail, the insignia were: A brimmed hat called studded with pearls, with a neck-cover with the owner's name embroidered in gold and pendants "similar to those of the emperor". The was an everyday headgear, but it was forbidden to despots who had not reached adolescence to wear it indoors. For ceremonies and festivities, the despot bore the domed , decorated with gold metalwork, precious stones and pearls. A red tunic similar to the emperor's, with gold embroideries of the style but without military insignia, red leggings and a red cloak () with broad stripes. For festive occasions, the long kaftan-like was worn, of red or purple colour and decorated with pearls. A pair of purple and white soft boots, decorated with imperial eagles made of pearls on the sides and the instep. The spurs were also bi-coloured, purple and white. In a few cases where emperors wished to show special favour to a son (Constantine Palaiologos under Michael VIII Palaiologos and Matthew Kantakouzenos under John VI Kantakouzenos), red boots like the emperor's were substituted, elevating its holder to an ad hoc, quasi-imperial rank "above the despots" (). The despot's saddle and horse furniture were similar to that of the emperor, likewise in purple and white, decorated with pearl eagles. The coating of the saddle and the despot's tent were white with small red eagles. The despot also had the right to sign his letters with an ink of a dark red colour (the emperor's was bright red). Lists of known holders Byzantine Empire Note: Names in italics indicate persons who claimed the title but were never conferred it by a reigning Byzantine emperor Despots of the Morea Despots of Epirus Latin Empire Bulgarian Empire Serbian Empire and successor states See also Despotovac Notes and references Notes References Sources Byzantine imperial titles Byzantine court titles Serbian noble titles Noble titles Bulgarian noble titles Lists of office-holders in the Byzantine Empire Serbia-related lists