Chasuble with orphreys

The chasuble is the main vestment worn by a priest when celebrating Mass. This example is of great historic interest as the orignal owner, the Duke of Warwick (d.1445), can be identified by the heraldic devices on the coats of arms applied to the orphreys.

Chasubles and other church vestments made of rich and fashionable materials were often used to symbolise the status of the owner or donor, as in this case, as well as to show his or her devotion to the church.