The cope is an ancient liturgical vestment descended from the same Roman garment as the chasuble. However, unlike the chasuble, it it not strictly-speaking a liturgical vestment and it can be worn by clergy and lay people. It is essentially an ornamented cape.
The choice of fabric and decoration depends on the preferences of the wearer as its not generally required that the cope match the colour of the day or season. A plainweave fabric in wool or synthetic blends ornamented with a silk banding or tapestry orphrey is always an elegant choice at a reasonable cost. Silk damask's are a traditional favourite and are striking in their beautiful simplicity. If you have a piece of fabric that is special to you, we can talk about how it might be incorporated into a cope or any other vestment.
CLICK on any of the images for a larger view. There are multiple images in some sets that can be viewed by hovering on the right or left side of the image when it appears.
|
|
|
|
| "Jerusalem Cope" in Damasus Silk |
White Tudor Rose Silk Cope |
|
|
| Private Collection |
Private Collection |
|
|
| 
