Antique 19th Century Silver Metallic Embroidery Religious Cope Hood

This is a resplendent (cope hood) textile with the use of silver metallic thread embroidery which, when in the light, shimmers like diamonds. It originates from France and dates towards the end of the 1800's.

A cope "hood" attaches to a the back neck area of a large, floor length robe which fastens in the front (like a cape). The hood is the part that is seen by the congregation (back of the robe) and is always the most elaborately adorned.

It is made of fine garnet silk cotton which is backed with (sandwiched) heavy linen and polished hunter green cotton. The center Christogram (IHS with rising cross) is surrounded by rays "rayonnant" and an octagonal frame. Surrounding all edges is a flamboyant design of flowers, leaves, arabesques and swirls. Each of the designs is formed by very thin metallic braid mixed with flat braid (which imparts the shimmer).

The entire edge is embellished with a 1" wide gilt brocade metallic trim. Hundreds of metallic threads are woven (the pattern is interesting) to produce a lavish and textural appearance. Around the outer edge a 3" long gilt metallic fringe, which includes large boullion fringes (a few missing at the top).

The back makes visible to us the hand stitched work used to repair and fortify (over time) this old vestment from the ravages of use and age. It measures: 24" x 28". It is in good condition in accordance with age and use: The gilt edging braid at the top needs to be restitched in places and has darkened. There are a few missing boullion fringes as mentioned above. The back is piece lined which is typical of old vestments.

It is an unusual religious textile with a very spectacular regard.