opus anglicanum
English ecclesiastical needlework
Opus anglicanum is a type of elaborate needlework produced in medieval England, particularly from the 12th through 14th centuries.
The Latin term means "English work" and referred to embroidery of exceptional quality featuring gold and silver threads, silk, and pearls on ecclesiastical vestments and other liturgical textiles.
These pieces were prized throughout Europe and commissioned by popes and royalty.
The cope displayed intricate opus anglicanum depicting scenes from the life of Christ.
- medieval EnglandBritain's feudal centuries
- copeHandle difficulties adequately
- gold threadFine metallic embroidery fiber
- embroideryDecorative stitching on fabric
- goldElement seventy-nine
floral motifs · silk · chasuble · biblical scenes · figurative · 14th century · medieval guilds · Gothic art · couching · needlework · royal commissions · illuminated manuscripts · Canterbury · devotional · ceremonial robes · heraldic · gilt · cathedral
- embroiderycross stitch, cross-stitch, French knot, needlepoint, crewelwork
- needleworkcross-stitch, embroidery, embroidery hoop, embroidery hoops, needlepoint
- ecclesiastical needleworkaltar cloth, altar cloths, chasuble, stole, stoles
opus anglicanumweaving
Interlacing strands into fabric
woven tapestry · Bayeux Tapestry · knitting · felting · damask