Panels such as this—with its extraordinary patterns in long repeats—were called "bizarre" by the Danish scholar Slomann, who believed they were made in India. Most scholars consider them an exotic phase in the history of European silk weaving.

The perfectly matched flowing floral design gives this chasuble its distinctive appearance. The sense of liveliness in the beautiful pattern comes from the finely detailed central urn motifs, which incorporate fluting and cross-hatching; the peony blossoms shaded with subtle gradations in color; and the tulip heads that are just beginning to open.

1501 / 1525, Italy

1501 / 1525, Italy