The Papal Subcinctorium

 

Admittedly, images of the papal subcinctorium are very difficult to find. Here it can be seen in part, not to be mistaken for the maniple. This ancient ornamental vestment was reserved to the Roman Pontiffs (and similar to other papal vestments, also to the Patriarch of Lisbon). It was only used at Solemn Papal Masses -- an event so large it only occurred a handful of times a year. 

It was essentially an embroidered piece of fabric, similar to a maniple, only it was suspended from the cincture on the left side. It had an embroidered image of a cross and the Agnus Dei image of the Lamb of God. Although this blessed tradition was discontinued and last seen in 1964, we hope it will make a comeback. 

An ancient tradition, it is mentioned as early as the tenth century in the "Sacramentarium," a very early source for liturgical praxis. The subcinctorium had earlier names such as "balteus" and "proecinctorium." St. Thomas Aquinas mentioned it, highlighting its original purpose -- to secure the stole to the cincture. But in the decades following the death of Aquinas, it was already fast becoming an ornamental vestment. 

In the Middle-Ages bishops and some other clergy wore it, but later only the popes and bishops of the See of Milan made use of this custom. There are different symbolic meanings attached to this unique vestment. St.  Augustine makes mention of it, identifying it as a remnant of the apparel of the High Priest in the Temple of Jerusalem. 

Here the subcinctorium can be seen, with the Lamb of God and seven seals

Here the maniple can be seen as well as the subcinctorium

Here the subcinctorium can be seen (above) with the maniple (below)

It was also interpreted as a sign of humility, recalling to mind the towel Christ had by his side when he washed the feet of the Apostles on Holy Thursday. Or maybe a towel used to dry the tears of the prelate as he offers sacrifice in the name of his people, assuming the burden of their supplications. Realistically, it could also be a remnant of the "alms purse" that popes wore to give to the poor and those in need. 

In any event, it is no doubt a tradition, that like so many others, came from the East. It is easy to see a relation or parallel to the Eastern "epigonation" worn by bishops in some Eastern rite churches. Although a different shape, it is a diamond shaped cloth vestment that hangs on the right side below the waist, suspended from strap drawn over the left shoulder. This tradition in the East has been maintained to this day. 

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