Beautiful antique 1800s scapular from France, Italy, and Spain. Unfortunately, I cannot tell which country this piece originated, as we purchased over 250 pieces in a vast collection.
This is a STUNNING handmade piece from the early to mid-1800s. It was made with a soft cloth, metallic threads, ribbons, pearl beads, and sequins. This ornate piece represents Our Lady of Mount Carmel, also known as The Virgin of Carmen. Our Lady of Mount Carmel is a highly venerated Marian devotion in the Catholic Church. She is considered the patron saint of sailors, fishermen, and all those dedicated to the sea, as well as the protector of mariners. Her feast day is celebrated on July 16. Our Lady of Mount Carmel, particularly as symbolized by the Brown Scapular, represents a special connection to Mary, the Mother of God, and a call to a deeper relationship with her. It signifies belonging to the Carmelite family, consecration to and trust in Mary, and a commitment to imitating her virtues. The scapular symbolizes her protection and a reminder of her role as a spiritual guide. This scapular is shaped like a book, and it opens to reveal a small book on the inside written in Latin. It has a small pearl closure. There is a cream ribbon on the top. This piece measures approximately .75" x 1.25".
Scapulars were usually made to order by nuns in convents. Devotional scapulars are objects of popular piety designed to show the wearer's pledge to a confraternity, a saint, or a way of life and remind the wearer of that promise.
Please note that this piece is not new. This is an antique, so wear is commensurate with age.
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