The Saint Bede Studio posted photos today of the new set of vestments commissioned by the Archdiocese of Sydney for the Papal mass this Saturday. They will be worn by the Supreme Pontiff and the three assisting deacons during the liturgy. (Note that the rendering above appears to have been completed before knowledge of the new pallium was made public, and should not be considered indicative of a further change.) The studio weblog has more:
In March, the Saint Bede Studio was contacted by the Archdiocese of Sydney with a request to submit designs for sets of vestments for the Papal Mass in Saint Mary’s Cathedral, Sydney, Saturday, 19th July. Designs were prepared for vestments decorated in three different styles: the Gothic Revival; Carolingian; and according to the traditions of Rome. These designs were then submitted by the Archdiocese of Sydney to the Prefect of Pontifical Ceremonies, Monsignor Guido Marini, who selected the design for vestments ornamented in the Roman style.The set is quite striking, and should serve as a splendid complement to Sydney Cathedral's Gothic lines.
[...] In preparing the design, certain considerations were paramount. Firstly, that the vestments be beautiful and dignified, as is fitting for vestments used by His Holiness. Secondly, that the vestments be convenient for the use of His Holiness. Lastly, that the vestments be visually related to Roman traditions for ornamenting sacred vestments.
The design for the chasuble is inspired by a 16th century Saragossan painting of Saint Martin of Tours. But the semi-conical shape of that chasuble was changed to accord more with the shape and dimensions set down in the same century by Saint Charles Borromeo. [...]
The mitre is made from cloth gold upon which is embroidered mediaeval scrollwork in gold, silver and crimson thread. These embroideries are derived from the historic mitre of Saint Thomas Becket (12th century) kept at the Sens Cathedral. The lappets of this mitre are also embroidered with scrollwork and bear the Papal coat of arms. The embroidery of the mitre was carried out splendidly by Fullerton Design Embroidery (Lithgow NSW).(Source).
Extensive photos here. Discussion and critiques are welcomed but tiresomely provocative arguments of any sort about vestment shape, lace, the lack of lace, or the like will be deleted.
