Artwork Page for Cope

Details / Information for Cope

Cope

1500s

China, Macao

Medium
Silk
Measurements
Overall: 124.5 x 276.9 cm (49 x 109 in.)
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1950.6
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Description

Silk fabric woven in China with European motifs was transported by European traders by the early 16th century. This popular pattern features a crowned double-headed eagle grasping arrows in its claws above a vase emitting blossoming vines. The eagle motif was derived from the Habsburg coat of arms, rulers of Spain and Austria during the 1500s and 1600s. Vertical borders with Chinese flora occur near the selvages of the five silk lengths forming the cope. The gilt-metal braided and fringed hood and broad orphrey band, or ornamental border, along the front edges feature fashionable small-scale floral sprigs.
A horizontally oriented semi-circular silk textile features a wide green band across the top, woven with small repeating floral patterns. Below, the main body consists of vibrant red panels densely patterned with birds and vines in glinting gold thread. A matching green shield-shaped hood with golden fringe hangs at the center, while vertical decorative bands break up the pattern. Gold thread outlines the curved edges, highlighting the textile's symmetrical and ornate composition.

Cope

1500s

China, Macao

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