What is this?
The orientation of the Miter head placed both flaps front and back to the head of the abbot. This position allowed the lappets to fall down the body of the abbot. The head of the miter uses intricate designs such as eight-pointed stars, six-petalled rosettes, and purple and green silk circles. The head would most likely have been designed with jewels and expensive gems that would have indicated the elite standing that the wearer held. Specifically, the use of purple, a color synonymous with power and reign, signified this distinct eliteness that the constructor of the Miter desired to create.
The head of the Miter using these symbols is interesting to note as it could have been alluding to heaven. Suppose the abbot wears this Miter on their head. In that case, it symbolizes that this religious member is deeply connected to the stars and heaven, providing the audience with more knowledge. Considering the star symbolizes purple and green circles that would have held jewels, this imagery connects astronomy and otherworldly harmonies.
Following down the Miter and body of the abbot are the lappets of this specific miter. The design includes small figurines of animals important to the Christian religion, influenced by Islam. These lappets were designed in an orphery style that the Byzantine empire influenced and was often found in Miters correlating to the same time in the Byzantine area. Overall, the miter's construction allows the abbot this specific textile was built for to create a sense of power over the 'normal' or 'regular' members of the church to promote religious strength and integrity. The miter continues to be seen as a deeply religious symbol throughout history with the Pope and other high clergy people of the church adorned with this textile regularly. The historical and visual analysis of this Miter allows an understanding of the interactions, devotions, and intentions of the population this Miter influenced in the 13th century.