Italian, Tuscany
Fragments of Orphrey with Scenes of the Annunciation, about 1450-1500
Silk compound satin with brocatelle effect, 168.9 x 23.5 cm (66 1/2 x 9 1/4 in.)
This orphrey, or embroidered border from an ecclastical vestment, is woven in silver on a rose pink background. The Virgin stands on our right while the angel Gabriel kneels to the left facing the Virgin. The angel appears outdoors, while the Virign is placed under an arch held by two corinthian columns. On the top right, above the angel, rays of light shine towards the Virgin. Along both sides of the orphrey, a ribbon of roses creates a border.
Short Gallery
Commentary
Isabella Stewart Gardner kept meticulous records of many of her acquisitions. In keeping with this legacy, object information is continually being reviewed, updated, and enriched in order to give greater access to the collection.