the head-dress of most of the eastern nations. It consists of two parts, a cap, and a saff of fine linen, or taffeta, artfully wound in divers plaiting about the cap. The cap has no brim, is pretty flat, though roundish at top, and quilted with cotton, but does not cover the ears. There is a good deal of art in giving the turban a fine air, and the making of them is a particular trade. The saff of the Turks turban is white linen; that of the Persians red woollen. These are the distinguishing marks of their different religions. Sophi, king of Persia, being of the sect of Ali, was the first who assumed the last colour, to distinguish himself from the Turks, who are of the sect of Omar, and whom the Persians esteem heretics.