Benedict XVI : 17

On the occasion of his visit to the Benedictine Abbey of Monte Cassino in May 2009, Pope Benedict was presented with sets of vestments which were, in the view of the writer of this Blog, the most magnificent of any used by the Pope throughout his Pontificate. The presentation consisted of a chasuble, mitre, cope and matching dalmatics. In their ornamentation, these vestments are very much in the character of the style of vestments used in Italy in the 13th century, although the cut of the chasuble is Borromeon.

Concerning the mitre, it is made from a white silk damask and its orphrey (properly called the circulus and titulus) is also formed from hand-embroidered gold silk. Quite unlike the excess of the baroque mitres, the ornament of this mitre is confined to its orphrey. Here we find, in geometrical patterns, precious stones of differing sizes and colours, arranged in a restrained and tasteful manner. The shape and height of the mitre are very well proportioned, according to the manner of the early mediaeval period and well-suited to the stature of its wearer, Pope Benedict.  

Candlemas at S' Peter's February 2013

What has been written about the mitre can also be said of the decoration of the chasuble and the cope, which are lined in a rich red silk taffeta.  The entire set is a masterpiece of good taste and good proportion.

Pope Benedict has frequently used these vestments, which makes quite clear that an authentic reproduction of Mediaeval vestments can still be convenient to wear and not merely be a curiosity or museum piece.