Italian 18th Century Pillow With Raised Laurel Leaves And Berries

An 18th century Italian vestment fragment featuring a wreath of laurel leaves and berries that represent triumph. The laurel leaves and berries are stitched with two tones of silver metal thread and padded, giving it an amazing raised effect.  Inside the wreath are the initials “IHS” these are the most common Christogram and are derived from the first three letter of the Greek name Jesus.  Trailing vines and padded leaves and flowers surround the wreath. Edged with a hand-made antique torchon lace, all on rare 18th century red/wine silk velvet.  Finished around the velvet edges with an antique metal cording, while silver metal tassels with a basket weave design adorn the top corners of the pillow.  Inside is a pure down insert to keep it light and fluffy. (Looks slightly lighter in color since the silk velvet absorbs the flash from the camera.)  

Condition:  The third picture shows a darkened area that looks to be surface burn of the silk velvet but no holes. Everything has that rich patina of age.  No other problems, in amazing condition for its age.