A Thirteenth Century Solemn Mass Set of Pope Boniface VIII

Medieval vestments are few and far between and medieval papal vestment sets all the moreso, so for that reason, we're pleased to be able to share the following solemn Mass set of Pope Boniface VIII.

Now, it is worth noting that the shape of the chasuble and dalmatic/tunicle were modified in the sixteenth century to align to shapes fashionable in those times. The fabric itself exhibits Byzantine imperial design influences, featuring the double-headed eagle, griffins and what would appear to be peacocks set into circular medallions. This fabric is commonly attributed to being of Sicilian origins, though some speculate that it may have come from Cyprus. 

The chasuble features an image of Christ Pantocrator on the top of the front Tau cross, set between the Greek symbols of the Alpha and Omega, while the twelve apostles form the remaining orphrey depictions. 


 

The cope was likely originally a much larger mantum. It is 'hoodless':


As mentioned, the dalmatic and tunicle of the set represent a modification of the shape. You will note how the fabric has been stitched together at the arms and on the sides of the main body.

The 'precise' dating of this set puts them somewhere between A.D. 1225-1250. 

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