We are passionate about embroidery and get very excited by every piece that comes into the Studio, whether for Conservation, Restoration or to be a new bespoke piece.

This chasuble came in from a small church in the Midlands, and we were taken aback to see the most amazing medieval embroidery, an example of ‘Opus Anglicanum’, often only seen in exhibitions and museums.

The medieval embroidery formed the front and the back orphrey on a chasuble. The base of the chasuble had deteriorated, meaning the embroidery needed to be transferred onto new fabric, not for the first time in its long life.

The chasuble was deconstructed, and we took each of the orphreys, lightly surface cleaned them, supported and generally tidied to ensure they were in the best condition for the future. The embroidered pieces were in a very good condition with only a few repairs and changes made during its long history.

The most obvious is the addition of a black line of couching around the outside and Jesus’ hair had been painted a different colour. The chasuble was made up with a suitable colour and will continued to be used by the Church for special events and festivals.

Do you have a piece of embroidery you would like restored?

Visit the RSN Embroidery Studio Website  to find out more about our restoration services.