Back of a chasuble
Unknown Artist
15th–16th century
Medium
Silk and linen
Dimensions
L. 46 3/4 x W. 7 inches (118.7 x 17.8 cm)
Classification
Textiles-Woven
Culture
Italian, possibly Florence
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Mrs. Van Santvoord Merle-Smith, 1933
Accession Number
33.39.5
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite *Back of a Chasuble*, crafted in the 15th–16th century by an unknown Italian artist—possibly from Florence—offers a glimpse into Renaissance ecclesiastical splendor. Chasubles were ornate vestments worn by priests Mass, with the back panel serving as a dramatic focal point. Woven from luxurious silk and linen, this46 3/4 x 7-inch textile (118.7 x 17.8 cm) likely features motifs of Christ and angels, evoking reverence and divine protection, as suggested by its thematic tags. The use of silk and linen in woven textiles highlights Florence's mastery of opulent fabrics during the R...