Textiles produced all over the world as garments or ceremonial cloth, are a means of creative expression reflecting the cultural values of a people. The study of textiles reveals an amazing diversity of designs and techniques. The Dayton Art Institute collection of textiles, approximately 1000 includes ecclesiastical vestments, tapestries, American Indian blankets, quilts, African, Chinese, Japanese, Central Asian, Persian, Indian, Indonesian, Peruvian textiles and laces. Selections are on display in various galleries with other objects from the same times and place. Textiles are very sensitive to light so they are displayed for a shorter time and periodically rotated. In 1997 with the renovation of the museum, a special textile exhibition gallery was designated to honor Mrs. Virginia K. Kettering, an ardent patron of the Art Institute.

Italian, possibly Venetian

Chasuble with Orphery Band

16th - 17th Century

Silk embroidered with gold thread

45 x 26 inches

Gift of Mrs. A. Siegel