Iran (New Julfa, Isfahan)

Armenian Liturgical Cope of Safavid Velvet (New Julfa, Isfahan)

2776

Creation Date: First half of the 17th century (velvet portion dates roughly to the early-to-mid 1600s under Safavid rule). Period: Safavid Period of Iran / Seventeenth-century Armenian-Persian cross-cultural exchange.

Liturgical and Ecclesiastical Function: Utilized as a high-ranking Christian sacerdotal vestment (cope) worn by clergy during solemn processions, mass, and liturgical ceremonies in Armenian churches. Socio-Political Signifier: Acted as a material bridge embodying the wealth, mercantile success, and religious autonomy of the New Julfa Armenian merchant community operating under Safavid protection.