Value and Significance Assessment of Liturgical Textiles

The project to assess the value and significance of liturgical textiles was initiated after the 2021 floods in Wallonia, which highlighted the vulnerability of this religious heritage. Its goal is to support heritage managers and professionals in evaluating the cultural heritage value and significance of these textiles, which include richly embroidered garments made of luxurious silk fabrics. The project involves collaboration with CIPAR, diocesan heritage services, church councils, and textile experts to enhance knowledge and expertise in assessing liturgical textiles. It builds on existing methodologies for evaluating religious heritage, using a participatory approach. A key outcome involved compiling and sharing observation points for evaluating religious textiles, ensuring that 19th and 20th century pieces are not overlooked. Paying attention to vestment typology, fabric types, woven patterns, and embroidery techniques provides clues for dating and assessing their (art) historical value. Case studies, such as the liturgical collection in Verviers post–flooding, helped gain relevant knowledge and practical experience. The project provided a framework for the systematic significance assessment of religious textiles and emphasises the need for continued research in Wallonia and Brussels to protect and raise awareness of these culturally significant artefacts.