Panel

Art Historical Context

This stunning 15th-century silk velvet panel, hailing from Italy, exemplifies the Renaissance mastery of luxury textiles. Measuring an impressive 60½ x 25⅝ inches (153.5 x 65 cm), it was likely designed as a decorative hanging, garment panel, or liturgical furnishing, showcasing the era's opulent craftsmanship. Produced in weaving centers like Lucca or Florence, where silk production flourished, such velvets were symbols of wealth and status, traded across Europe and beyond. The medium—rich silk velvet—highlights advanced weaving techniques, including the creation of a plush pile through cut ...