Pair of borders. Spain, 16th century

Pair of borders. Spain, 16th century.
Silk embroidered with gold thread.
Measurements: 179 x 49 x 7 cm; 142 x 26,5 cm.

Pair of silk fragments embroidered with gold thread. Judging by the format it is probable that, in origin, they were part of the ornamentation of a chasuble. Both fabrics have the same design with the typical candilieri decoration, based on laceria and vegetal motifs.

During and after the Renaissance the vestments used in religious rites were deformed. At the beginning of the Middle Ages wool was almost exclusively its material. The influence of Gothic art made the use of silk more frequent, which was the norm in the 15th century. At the beginning the usual color was white, but gradually a variety of colors became fixed, depending on the time of year and festivities. Ornamentation was limited in ancient times to a band bordering the head opening and running down over the chest and back. Additions were branched crosses, decorated leaves, figures and scenes, all with costly decoration in gold, silver and jewels.