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Embroidered Cope

Unknown artist, 1325

V&A South Kensington, London

This cope is one of the very finest surviving church vestments of English mediaeval workmanship. It is fan-like in shape, decorated with Gothic arcading and scenes of the Coronation of the Virgin, the Adoration of the Magi, and the Annunciation. At some time the cope was cut up, then reassembled in 1854. Exquisite needlework was produced in England long before the Norman invasion. Constant reference is made in medieval chronicles and inventories to 'English work' - Opus Anglicanum- in connection with the most sumptuous embroideries. Popes and Princes sent to this country for their most magnificent garments and gifts of English needlework were considered a mark of special favour.

More information

Title of artwork, date

Embroidered Cope, 1325

Date supported

1955

Medium and material

Velvet, gold thread, pearls, & green beads

Gifted by

Colonel W Butler Bowden

Grant

5000

Total cost

33000

Content note: This object record is part of our archive and has not been updated since it was first published. It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language. Please get in touch if you think this record should be amended.

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