As these images display, it is fittingly decorous for the liturgy and goes well with 100% linen, making a perfect rochet. Even better with scarlet silk under the sleeves to complete the traditional details.
In some of these examples can be seen the coat-of-arms embroidered on the front, in a French style. Cardinal Spellman had the same design on one of his rochets.
These images are from our good friends at Ars Comacina, a firm that makes quality vestments based in Como, Italy. The production of lace has been a tradition in Lombardy for centuries. It brings immense joy to know the old ways of bobbin lace making is being passed on to the next generation.
Cantù is a Province of Como, located north of Milan in Lombardy. For hundreds of years lace has been made here, a cherished custom that has thankfully continued. This style of lace began to be created in this area in the nineteenth century.
Even King Henry VIII of England is said to have worn, for example, breeches trimmed with silk lace from the region of Milan.
Handmade lace has seen a rapid decline since the invention of machine-made lace. The craft has remained largely dormant, but is making a comeback. There is a revival among Traditional Mass communities that are creating new artists and new buyers.
God bless our friends at Ars Comacina for promoting old lace models and patterns that are being salvaged and antiquated techniques that are being rediscovered and employed at the service of the altar in order to give Glory to God and inspire the Christian faithful.
For other examples, please see here. For info and estimates, contact: [email protected].
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