is pointed to the lamb. To the right we have St. John the Evangelist, holding a cup in one hand, while with the other he makes the poisonous drug in it harmless by a blessing.
The grounding has been filled in mostly with golden thread, but of so poor a quality that the thin metal on it is scarcely discernible. In both figures the whole of the person, the fleshes, as well as clothing, are all done in woven white silk cut out, shaded, and featured in colours by the brush, with some little needlework here and there upon the garments and accessories. The figures of the saints are "applied;" and one cannot but admire the effect which a few stitches of rich green silk produce upon the canvas ground, while a piece of applied silk, slightly shaded by the brush, is an admirable imitation of a rocky cliff. The two tall trees and green garlands between them are telling in their warm tones. Altogether this is a precious specimen of applied work, and merits attention. It seems to have been the middle piece of a banner used for processions, and may have once belonged to some church at Cologne dedicated to the two SS. John.
8688
Portion of an Orphrey, crimson satin, embroidered with flowers in coloured silk and gold thread. 17th century. 1 foot 3-1/2 inches by 2 inches.
From what liturgical vestment this was taken it would be hard to
guess, but there is no likelihood that it ever ornamented a mitre. The
yellow flowers, of the composite kind, and heart's-eases are very nicely
done, whether the work of an Italian, French, or German hand. They
have much about them that speaks of France.
8689.
Piece of Raised Velvet, brown, with floriated pattern in gold thread. North Italy, early 16th century. 1 foot 1-1/2 inches by 6-1/2 inches.
Most likely from the looms of Lucca, and with a pretty diapering
in the gold ground where it is bare of the velvet pile.
