Those acquainted with the liturgical arts of the See of Milan are familiar with the sight of Ambrosian Rite vestments. These vestments have a unique style and are distinguished, in accordance with an ancient tradition, with the “cappino" worn around the neck and fastened to the chasuble, dalmatic and tunicle. Further, matching cuffs and hanging apparel are worn on the alb. The diaconal stole is extra large and is worn over the dalmatic. These extras make for a lustrous glow, with a strong display of golden colors.
Milan is the largest archdiocese in Europe, the former grand Duchy of Milan, and it has its own liturgy. Meanwhile, the Ambrosian Rite is a Latin rite of the Church. Its traditions date back to ancient times, with influences from other rites. Red is also a common color of Ambrosian vestments, the standard color used from Pentecost to the third Sunday of October, instead of typical green vestments seen in the Roman tradition.
This new solemn set by Sacra Domus Aurea is a fine example of the Ambrosian style, made with great care according to historic ancient patterns. The materials reflect the finest tradition of Italian vestment making, with rich burgundy silk damask and Venetian silk damask used for the orphreys. The vestments are finished with the glow of golden galloons, fringes, and tassels, with a display of multiple crosses. The set comes complete with a chasuble, dalmatic, tunicle, cope and humeral veil and of course matching stoles, maniples, chalice veil, and burse.
Sacra Domus Aurea is a bespoke vestment company located on the island of Sardinia. I highly recommend their work. Direct inquiries with their rep are welcome for those who may be interested in discussing variations on this or any other design. Vestments are made-to-order and many are in Venetian silk, a nice plus and a tradition that reaches back to the historic "Silk Road" which saw Venice as the main port of entry in Europe for the silks of the East, a tradition that lasted through the Middle-Ages until the time of the discovery of the New World.
This fine work and genuine craft in the tradition of the Church brings to mind a quote from Sir Roger Scruton (source: Conservatism: An Invitation to the Great Tradition):
"For Medieval craftsmen, work was an act of piety and was sanctified in their own eyes, as in the eyes of their God. For such labourers, end and means are one and the spiritual wholeness of faith is translated into the visual wholeness and purity of their craft. Hence their craft was also art, a permanent testimony to the reality on earth of humanity's spiritual redemption."
For those privileged to visit Milan, I encourage a Sunday morning experience of the ancient Ambrosian Rite, an unforgettable display of liturgical arts and ancient prayer and chant. Holy Mass is offered Sunday mornings at 8:15 am (low) and 9:45 am (sung) at the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Consolazione, a small church located on Largo Cairoli, within walking distance of the Duomo. Be sure to confirm Mass times ahead of time.
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