Another 'memento mori' style requiem chasuble that gets a lot of play online, but which has seldom come with any further details or information, is this chasuble which features a reclining skeleton at whose feet we can find a various symbols of the vanities of the world in the form of worldly wealth and power. We fine a seven-pointed crown (a symbol of worldly dominion), knightly armour (a helmet and shield), as well as a spear and a bow. In terms of memento mori, beyond the skeleton itself, once again Death's scythe makes an appearance, we likewise again see the winged hourglass, skull and crossbones, as well as a burnt, defused candle -- all symbols of the impermanence of life and the inevitability of death.
Now what is often not noticed by casual observers is what the skeletal figure holds within his hand; a set of heraldic arms. These arms are those of Baron von Bettendorf, the likely donor family of this particular chasuble. This helps us to date the chasuble to circa 1720-1730.
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| A text can be found within the cross, but unfortunately it is difficult to make out |
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| The arms are those of Baron von Bettendorf |
The front of the chasuble continues some of the same stylistic decoration as the back, and it would appear a large fabric repair/replacement has been done so regrettably we cannot see the entitreity of the design -- though its possible it it was simple plain silk here.
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| Credits ©BDDM / Photo: Marcel Schawe |
Today this chasuble is kept in the treasury museum of the Cathedral of St. Martin's in Mainz, Germany where it has been since at least 1854.
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