Friday 24 February 2012

Ash Wednesday


In 2010, Father Jeffrey Lee from Trenton, New Jersey (USA) commissioned the Saint Bede Studio to prepare a Solemn Mass set for the season of Lent, comprising several chasubles and dalmatics. The principal chasuble was prepared in that style referred to as semi-conical: a modified cut of the ancient shape of the chasuble.

These vestments were made from a Roman purple brocade, ornamented with another brocade in silver and black and outlined with a narrow galloon. To increase the sombre visual effect, a chevron in black silk was added to the chasuble.

One of the concelebration chasubles is also shewn, ornamented more simply, but with the same scheme.


Parts of the set were completed last year, whilst a further two chasubles were prepared for Ash Wednesday 2012.

Click on the images for an enlarged view.

These photographs are the copyright of The Times of Trenton.

Enquiries: stbede62@gmail.com

Monday 20 February 2012

Albes

The importance of a graceful albe in clothing the ministers of the altar cannot be overestimated.  Frequently albes are seen about our altars which are dirty or ragged, or too short: all very unseemly.  A beautiful vestment can only be fully appreciated when worn with a well-presented albe.

There are several different styles of albe presently available commercially, but the style made by the Saint Bede Studio is that style which was common throughout the Mediaeval period and through into the Renaissance.

It has no fastening at the neck, but a circular yoke, which goes over the head quite easily.  Its sitting away from the neck is a real an advantage in keeping the neckline clean.  These albes are well-gathered at the yoke and fall in graceful folds, rather than being stretched over the wearer in a skimpy manner.

Whenever possible, albes made by the Saint Bede Studio are of pure linen, although the weight of the linen we use varies according to our customer's needs.

Click on the images for an enlarged view.

Enquiries: stbede62@gmail.com

Sunday 12 February 2012

An old favourite

Of all the styles of vestments regularly made by the Studio, the Maria Regina chasuble is the one enquired about most often. 

These vestments, made from an Ivory-coloured damask and lined in blue dupion silk, are ornamented in a braid specially made for the Studio, based upon the work of AWN Pugin.  The chasuble is usually made in the style of the 16th century: being not very wide and pointed at the front and the back.

This particular set was made for a young priest of the Archdiocese of Sydney.

Click on the image for an enlarged view. 

Enquiries: stbede62@gmail.com