Fragment of a Chasuble (back)

Art Historical Context

This exquisite fragment from the back of a chasuble, a sleeveless outer vestment worn by priests during Catholic Mass, hails from mid-15th-century Italy Dating to the early Renaissance, it reflects the era's booming textile industry, particularly in cities like Venice and Lucca, skilled weavers produced luxurious fabrics for ecclesiastical use. Though the artist remains unknown, the piece's survival as a substantial remnant—measuring nearly four feet tall—hints at its original grandeur, likely adorning a sacred garment in a lavish church setting. Crafted from rich velvet, this textile showcas...