Extravagant Antique Ecclesiastic Velvet an Stumpwork Chasuble Cope

The deep green black hue of the rich velvet gives the large vermeil (silver/gold) medallion a radiant countenance, This is the cope portion of a priest's robe which dates towards 1890. It originates from the Champagne region of France.

The central medallion is large, measuring 11" x 11" (the entire cope measures 21" x 21"). Stumpwork (padded field onto which the gilt work is sewn) gives extra depth to the crown of thorns and the central Christogram. The crown of thorns is formed by a multitude of coiling silver metallic threads which are worked in short rows to create an intertwining vine. Shining forth from the crown of thorns are 32 rays which are embellished by champagne colored sequins and metallic threads. (a few missing sequins on the ray at the 10 minute position). The Christogram is worked in extremely tightly coiled silver bands which give a velvet appearance. There is a stunning budded cross which is worked in tight rows of silver/champagne metallic bands. The back is of coffee colored burlap. You can see the stitching of the medallion onto the velvet from this side. There is hand stitching in two rows along the edge which attaches the fringe and braid.

There is a wide gilt metallic brocade (1") around the outer edge and a very wide (3") silver bouillon fringe sewn to the brocade. The cope is in very good antique condition: light wear to edges typical with age and use. Please not that the metallic coloring is gilt-silver therefore the pictures reflect both colors depending on how the lights hit the metallic threads.

It is a magnificent ecclesiastic textile from the late 19th century.