Chasuble Late 17th century France Silk, silver-gilt and silk thread, couching, satin stitch; 98 x 89 cm This chasuble of white atlas with embroided blue and pink flowers is characteristic of the 'grand style' of the reign of Louis XIV, when works of applied art were used at the royal court to create an effect of grandeur and emphasize the solemnity of ceremonies and church services. The crescent-shaped relief forms emphasize the illusory volume of the sumptuous silk-embroidered flowers and fruits. The professional skill of French embroiderers attained sublime heights at this time.