Today I wished to share with our readers a set of historical vestments that were commissioned in the fifteenth century (1449-1450) by the Commune of Siena and Aquila for use by Pope Nicholas V for the occasion of the canonization of St. Bernardino of Siena (1380-1444) on the feast of Pentecost in the year 1450.

Join in the conversation on our Facebook page. Share: Share:

The textiles which form the base of the set were manufactured in Florence and include many typical themes found therein. One element that is rather unique about this set, however, are the scenes showing miracle of Christ walking on water that have been incorporated. The cope in particular includes a number of fine embroideries on the orphrey (further details below).The chasuble, dalmatic and tunicle:Finally, a look at a few closer details, beginning with the stunning velvet brocade.From the orphrey of the cope:Many thanks go to Nicola de Grandi for providing these photographs to LAJ.