16th Century Silk and Gilt-Metal Thread Embroidered Italian Antependium, Country of Origin: Italy, Florence, Circa Date: 1580
Magnificent altar frontal (antependium) composed of dark crimson silk brocade woven with an ogival foliate pattern in gilt-metal thread. The textile is bordered on three sides with a sumptuous appliqué and embroidery in an elaborate strapwork design executed in gold-thread gaufrure embroidery, interlaced cording, and multicolored silk floss. The ornamentation features scrolling flowering vines, stylized peacock feathers, and pomegranate motifs — emblems of immortality and resurrection deeply rooted in Renaissance iconography.
Trimmed with a gilt-metal and silk braid and finished with a dense fringe of gilt-metal thread, the piece retains its original coarse, undyed linen lining. Florentine, circa 1580. Dimensions: 159 x 38.25 inches (404 x 97 cm).
Condition: Broad overall wear with areas of shredding and pile loss at the borders; tarnish, discoloration, and shattering to corners; scattered pulls to metallic threads. Despite its age, the textile remains a remarkable survival, reflecting the opulent ecclesiastical embroidery traditions of late Cinquecento Florence. Collectors seeking related works may also wish to explore our broader holdings of European rugs and decorative textiles from the period. For further context on the symbolism woven into pieces like this one, our guide to rug motifs and symbols is an excellent resource.
Provenance: The Brooklyn Museum, New York.
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