Three Chasubles of the Sixteenth Century

Today I thought we would take a quick look at three chasubles, each coming from the sixteenth century and each of them utilizing re-purposed medieval embroideries. This sort of thing was common at this time of course. In some instances the original medieval vestments were simply trimmed back thereby altering its original shape, while in other instances the embroideries were removed and re-applied to an entirely new vestment body.  In these particular examples, I suspect that we are dealing with the latter scenario.

With that in mind, let's take a look. 

Example No. 1

The first example is dated to the second half of the 1500's. The embroidered orphrey, which includes a scene of the Annunciation as well as the figures of Ss. Peter and Paul, St. Andrew, each surrounded by vegetal motifs, has been set on a voided velvet that uses the cammino motif.  Also of note in the design is the IHS Christogram, done in a distinctive gothic script, topped by a Latin cross.

Annunciation -  Angel Gabriel

Annunciation - Virgin Mary

St. Peter

St. Paul

Example No. 2

Our second example was manufactured in Venice and includes a particularly stunning series of embroideries that have been set on a blue silk background. Here again we see the Virgin and Child and various saints, each of which have been set into architectural niches along with floral and vegetal designs. Here again we see a velvet which employs the ever-popular Renaissance era cammino motif.  

Example No. 3

Finally, our last example shares the same common themes as our previous two examples. Once again we have a voided velvet as in the case of our first example, and saints set into architectural niches as in the second. The architectural aspects of these embroideries show the Arabic influences that were frequently in evidence in Venice and other regions involved in the textile trade during this period of time. 

-------

Do you like Liturgical Arts Journal's original content? You can help support LAJ in its mission and vision to promote beauty in Catholic worship either by: 

Making a one-time donation or

Subscribing monthly/yearly 

You choose the amount! Your support makes all the difference.