Priest's Red Cope, Orphrey and Hood

Liturgical copes are used for processions especially by those who assist the celebrant. They evolved from a secular outer garment with a hood to protect the wearer from wind and rain. Hoods remained although they became decorative and nonfunctional. This Italian silk damask features large symmetrical bouquets in urns within curved lattices bearing crowns flanked by birds. The French orphrey band, or ornamental border, along the front edges and hood incorporates small ornament associated with prestigious lace amid the formal foliate design.