A Survey of Some Recent Works by Atelier LAVS

Atelier LAVS (i.e. 'Laus' -- the Latin word for 'praise') is an Italian vestment maker, active both online and also having storefronts in Santarcangelo di Romagna, Assisi and, most recently, Rome.  The atelier is quite well known within Italian circles in particular, their vestments turning up particularly in pontifical Masses in Italy, including Papal Masses from time to time. 

The firm is especially known for their beautiful precious mitres, some of which we have featured here previously, though they are a full service atelier, making all manner of sacred vestments. One of the things the Atelier LAVS is especially know for are their exquisite orphreys which are characterized by strong textural elements set into geometric designs. Indeed, when observing the work of this atelier, you really want to not only take in the works as a whole, but focus in on the particular details. 

Today I thought we would stop and take a moment to do a survey of just some of their recent works coming out of their studio, to catch up a bit on what they are up to.  The atelier works predominantly (though not exclusively) in a medieval inspired aesthetic, both in terms of cut and also their characteristic style of ornamentation. The atelier does, however, offer services in other styles and other cuts, but what we will look at today is what this atelier is best known for and what we think our readers will be the most interested in.

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This next set is done in "paonozzo" -- a brighter, slightly pinkish hue of purple that is most frequently used and associated with episcopal vesture where it is used for the fascia (i.e. the sash) as well as for the purple choir cassock of a bishop.  The design here is very simple, yet still luxuriant for reason of the pattern silk damask and particularly the textured, beaded orphrey. 

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This particular design breaks slightly from LAVS usual geometric approach to orphrey design, picking upon the baroque tradition of flowers and Roman style scrollwork in gold and pastels. A chasuble such as this follows the tradition of the sort of festal vestments frequently seen in use during times such as Easter or Marian feasts.

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PIVIALE DI SANTO STEFANO

(Cope of St. Stephen)

St. Stephen was of course martyred by stoning, so it is worth pointing out the stone like objects that have been added to the orphrey of this cope.

Another detail from the orphrey, showing a martyrs palm branch

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Purple, amethyst coloured beads compliment both the cream and gold of the vestment

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Mitra pretiosa (Precious Mitre)

A classic pigna mitre, traditionally worn by Cardinals of the Church

A Gospel Cover inspired by medieval cosmatesque designs

If you are interested in learning more about the work of Atelier LAVS, please see their website or visit them on social media.

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