This mitre is part of the valuable collection of D. José Vieira Alvernaz, consisting of religious and personal objects and documents, donated to the Museu de Angra do Heroísmo in 1990 by his brother, Monsignor Manuel Vieira Alvernaz.
D. José Vieira Alvernaz (1898–1986) was a prelate from Pico who held the positions of Bishop of Cochim, Titular Archbishop of Cranganor, Metropolitan Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, and Patriarch of the East Indies. He is considered one of the most prominent figures of the Portuguese presence in India during the 20th century. He played an important moderating role in the process of annexation of the territories of Goa, Daman, and Diu by the Indian Union, sometimes acting against the dominant power, and became known for his proverbial charity and direct contact with the local populations.
The mitre is a head covering composed of two rigid pieces, oval, triangular, or pentagonal in shape, joined with fabric. From the back hang two narrow strips, called lappets. Made from rich fabrics and deeply ornamented, it is part of the episcopal insignia used in ceremonies by bishops, archbishops, certain abbots, and popes.
This example is made of cardboard covered with silk damask, satin embroidered with silver thread, gold-thread “soutache,” and glass stones in various colors. Both faces are embroidered with vegetal motifs. On the front, there are two circles: one with the patriarch’s coat of arms and the other with a pelican, symbolizing the sacrifice of giving one’s life out of love and charity. The back features two additional circles: one with the initials ISH associated with the name of Jesus, and the second with an M for Mary.
The piece belongs to the Textiles Collection of the MAH and was exhibited in 2011 in the exhibition “D. José Alvernaz | Patriarch of the East Indies.” The exhibition catalog is available online on the Museu de Angra do Heroísmo website: https://museu-angra.azores.gov.pt/…/Jose-Vieira…
Text | Cátia Sousa
