Chalice Veil Embroidered With Silver Threads And Silk, Antwerp, Early 17th Century.

Chalice veil in silk embroidered with silk and silver threads, various motifs, tulips, lilies, carnations and cornflowers in the center a sun with IHS chiphre for Jesus in Greek.
Antwerp embroidery work from the 17th century. This work is similar to the embroidery found on the doors and drawers of cabinets from this period.
The chalice veil, from the Latin velum which means hanging, curtain, is an ornament used in the Catholic liturgy. The chalice veil is intended to cover the chalice, paten and blade of the celebrant. It is made from the same fabric as the chasuble on which it is dependent. It measures approximately fifty centimeters on a side and is usually fitted with a lining matching that of the chasuble. Its use is more or less abandoned in the new liturgy, although it is explicitly recommended.