Burse. Lithuania, 17th c. Vilnius Cathedral.
17th c. Golden floral Baroque
In the 17th century, the theme of the suffering of Christ in church art gave way to the idea of praising the glory of God with grandeur and sensuality, glitter of gold and richness of details. However, the greatest change in the decoration of liturgical vestments was the so far unprecedented dominance of floral ornaments. Liturgical vestments turned into magnificent flower gardens almost devoid of religious symbols.
Liturgical textiles for altar and church decoration
Sets of liturgical vestments were often supplemented by sumptuous textile implements of the altar. The veil and burse are coverings that conceal the chalice of the Holy Mass at certain moments in the liturgy. Antependia decorating the frontal part of the mensa were made from expensive materials: silk, brocade and velvet, and were embroidered with gold and silver threads and decorated with appliqué and painting.
Embroidery with metal and silk threads
Floral ornaments are embroidered with fine silver and gilded silver threads on red velvet, and the figure of Christ is embroidered with silk threads
Images of Christ and scenes from the Gospel
The Saviour is represented holding an orb with a cross in his left hand, and giving a gesture of blessing with his right hand.