Chasuble

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

A chasuble is worn by a priest during the celebration of the Mass. On the back, which would have been visible as he faced the altar, are the Crucifixion of Jesus, with the Virgin Mary, his mother, and Saint John the Evangelist. Jesus' outpouring of blood is dramatized by the use of embroidery. The spear and sponge by which he was tormented, and the scourges from his Flagellation on the front add to the theme of sacrifice. This simple and provincial vestment is unusual for its use of applied leather and of plain wool rather than cut velvet.

Medieval Art and The Cloisters

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Museum's collection of medieval and Byzantine art is among the most comprehensive in the world. Displayed in both The Met Fifth Avenue and in the Museum's branch in northern Manhattan, The Met Cloisters, the collection encompasses the art of the Mediterranean and Europe from the fall of Rome in the fourth century to the beginning of the Renaissance in the early sixteenth century. It also includes pre-medieval European works of art created during the Bronze Age and early Iron Age.

Metropolitan Museum of Art