RARE Antique French Religious Convent Work Double Side Lyon Silk Antependium

The rich hue of the Lyon silk brocade is spectacular against the shimmering silver metallic braid. The reverse side of the panel features the most unusual Lyon floral silk accented by matching silver metallic braid. The altar textile originates from Provence, France and dates from the period of Napoleon III, circa 1870. The definition of an antependium is: "The word is taken from Latin ante- and pendēre "to hang before"; pl: antependia). It is also known as a parament or hanging, or, when speaking specifically of the hanging for the altar, an altar frontal (Latin: pallium altaris)". This beautiful textile was made within a convent as was typical of the period. The nuns fashioned the most exquisite adornments (for local parishes and priests) from "cast off" clothing of the local wealthy women. The fine silks, metallic braids and trims were carefully cut from these garments, giving the resulting in a textile unique in size and appearance. The small panel measures 24" wide x 1