Mitre embroided in gold

This mitre is made from silk serge and embroidered with gold thread that probably came from an English workshop. Saint Lawrence is represented as well as Saint Thomas Becket, whose assassination in 1170 created a great stir throughout Christianity. This type of mitre was sold as far afield as Italy. This particular one was part of the personal liturgical objects of Jacques de Vitry. After Jacques de Vitry’s death, and in line with his last wishes, this mitre was offered to the Priory of Oignies.

A mitre is a headdress worn by bishops since the early days of the Christian Church.