Chasuble.
Late 19th – early 20th c.
Church of St. Michael in Tabariškės.
19th c. Professional versus amateur
The 19th century is characterized by a large variety of styles and techniques. In Lithuania, the persisting tradition of Baroque was reflected in the decoration of liturgical vestments, and the impact of the mid-century Gothic revival in Europe was hardly felt. The back orphrey of chasubles often acquired the form of a cross. Medallions with Christograms, images of saints or the Lamb of God were placed at the intersection of the cross.
Chasubles
The chasuble is the central vestment for the Holy Mass worn by a priest over all the other parts of liturgical clothing. Originating from a Roman conical cloak protecting from cold, it has retained its form throughout the Middle Ages. Its sides gradually became shorter allowing more freedom of movement, until it became similar to a magnificent shield. The 19th–20th century liturgical movements returned the ancient form of a cloak to the chasuble.
Embroidery with silk threads, other embroidery techniques
In the late 19th century, vestments made from white or gold fabric with a cross embroidered on the back side and decorated with an Art Nouveau-style floral ornament became widespread in France. An example of this French style is the chasuble embroidered with silk threads in machine chain stitch.
Symbols of faith, floral ornaments
Chasubles of the style that was widespread in France in the late 19th century were often designed for the feasts of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and thus their ornaments are composed of lilies and roses without thorns, two main flowers related to the Mother of God. In the centre of the cross are the letters IHS, the monogram of the name of Jesus.