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amice

liturgical vestment
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History

amice, (derived from Latin amictus, “wrapped around”), liturgical vestment worn under the alb. It is a rectangular piece of white linen held around the neck and shoulders by two bands tied at the waist. Probably derived from a scarf worn by the secular classes, it first appeared as a liturgical garment in the Frankish kingdom in the 9th century and was worn by all clergy as a liturgical garment by the 12th century. Its use today is optional.

The medieval amice was worn as a hood to cover the head and ears. The hood form is retained by some monks. The Eastern church has no comparable vestment.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Matt Stefon.