The atelier, Sacra Domus Aurea, has recently produced a very interesting and unique vestment, the origins of which are hinted at in the name they have given to it: Pianeta Memento Mori di Duomo Siena. They offer the following description of the set and the source of its inspiration:
Roman cut requiem set inspired from the historic marble pavement found at the Duomo di Siena, replicating an unique memento mori inside the Cathedral of Siena. The chasuble is made using an Italian black silk damask with embroidered orphreys set onto silver shantung. It comes complete with chasuble, stole, maniple, burse and chalice veil.
The pavement in question, found in the historic Duomo of Siena -- a pavement which is internationally renowned for its beautiful figurative depictions -- is this:
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| Pavement in the Duomo of Siena |
What is interesting about this design is that it not only include a beautiful memento mori image in the form of a human skull, but beautiful knotwork interlacing which is rather reminiscent of the type one would especially associate with Celtic art and the like.
This knotwork (along with the skull) was translated into an Italian cut chasuble (i.e. 'pianeta') that makes for a remarkably unique design, one both traditional and also somehow "Other Modern" in its qualities as well. (In fact, I am put to mind here of the potential for this design to be applied to other colours, and particularly for those who might be looking for a more Irish/Celtic theme for their own vestments.)
It is a very striking design, and one which will certainly stand out from the crowd -- and in a very good way.
If you'd like more information on this or any other set by Sacra Domus Aurea, we would invite you to visit their website or to find them on social media.
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