I'm leaving, but where to?
Choir Mantle of Erich I of Saxe-Lauenburg
Florence/Netherlands
early 16th century
Lampas lamé; gold fabric; gold and silk embroidery
Domschatz Münster, Inv.-Nr. U.90
The back of the choir mantle depicts the Death of Mary. There are no biblical sources regarding the death of Mary, the mother of Jesus. In early Christianity, writings emerged that report on her death. She died in Jerusalem surrounded by the Apostles. Tradition even adds Paul to those present. However, there is no indication that Paul ever met Mary.
According to tradition, Mary lived in Jerusalem with the Apostle John after the death of Jesus. As her death approached, the other apostles were widely scattered. The Holy Spirit urged the apostles to return.
At that time, Paul was near Rome. According to legend, a cloud also came for him and brought him to Mary’s deathbed in time.
The embroidery depicts John handing Mary the deathbed candle. The Apostle James, identifiable by the pilgrim’s scallop shell on his hat, is also clearly visible.
Bishop Erich of Münster (in office 1508–1522) donated this cope, along with other vestments, to the cathedral.
