Minneapolis Institute of Art

Chalice Veil

England

Date

c. 1600

Medium

Silk, metallic threads, wire, beads, sequins, raised work embroidery, needle lace

Department

European Art

Institution

Minneapolis Institute of Art

This chalice veil, used to cover the chalice during the mass, was probably made sometime in the early part of the seventeenth century. The overall patterning and general concept of the design are reflective of the Elizabethan style of the mid-to late-sixteenth century. The raised-work embroidery of the peas, pea pods, grapes, and flowers, as well as the rather whimsical placement of butterflies and caterpillars, anticipates the exaggerated raised needlework of the mid-1600s. This textile was made to be used, and over time that use has taken its toll. The background silk satin material has fractured in several areas. In order to preserve the fabric, the veil has been couched with silk threads to a new ground cloth which has been secured to a ridged background to prevent further deterioration. The brick like texture is a result of this treatment. Magnification also revealed the remains of peacock feathers in the worms along the outer border, indicating these were originally plumed caterpillars. England, Europe

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