Miter from the abbey church of the Benedictine monastery of Saint Peter (BOSMFA 38.887)
The Miter from the Abbey church of the Benedictine Monastery of Saint Peter from the 13th century was found in Salzburg, Austria. This miter was a liturgical piece of clothing worn by an abbot during important church events. The head of the piece features eight-pointed stars and purple and gold roundels for gems that signify power and prestige. The ornate detailing suggests an astrological and otherworldly significance. The silk was from the near Middle east with either Byzantine or Islamic origins, but the piece was constructed in Germany. Although materials from the Miter result from Crusade trade patterns, the religious textile could have been used during an event to justify Christianity for a call to arms or support for the Crusades.