Cope from the Red Pontifical Set of Vestments of Genoa

This cope is part of a remarkable set of vestments given by Genoa to the Custody of the Holy Land. The importance of the thirteen vestments that make up this set lies not in the opulence of its elements, which feature neither gold nor silver thread, but rather in the quality of its design and the virtuosity of the embroidery. The arms of Genoa and of the Custody are combined with interlacing scrolls with flowers and fruits. The central scene represents the patron saint of the Republic of Genoa: George defeating the dragon. The parts of the set were delivered to Jerusalem between 1687 and 1697. The set’s design has been attributed to the Genoese painter Domenico Piola and members of his workshop, including his brother-in-law, Stefano Camogli, who specialized in painting flowers, fruit, and arabesque motifs.