A rare ensemble of two pieces of fine metal thread embroidery, originating from the same ecclesiastical context. 19th century, with clear evidence suggesting the reuse of older textiles (possibly 18th century). Southern Netherlands or France. Provenance as church altar decoration confirmed by museum expertise. Together the two pieces form a symbolic whole: the ears of wheat on the panel and the bunch of grapes on the runner represent bread and wine — the Eucharist. 1. Altar panel with Tetragrammaton (75 x 39 cm) Striking embroidery in gold and silver thread on red silk velvet, centred on a radiant triangle — symbol of the Holy Trinity. Within the triangle appears the Tetragrammaton (יהוה / YHWH), the sacred name of God, worked in raised bullion wire (cannetille) and surmounted by a cross. The central medallion is worked as an appliqué on a blue ground fabric — the mark of professional workshop craftsmanship, and possibly an indication that the embroidery was transferred from an older object, as was customary with precious church textiles. The triangle is surrounded by clouds executed in two techniques: plaited spiral discs and padded volutes covered with fine metal mesh. Radiating outwards is a glory of beams, accentuated with rows of gilt sequins. To the left and right, two pairs of ears of wheat, each grain individually built up from metal plate edged with gold cord, the whiskers worked in silk-wrapped thread. Below, an elegant palmette with scrolling tendrils in couched twisted cord. The velvet shows traces of earlier use (impressions of older ornamentation and a hand-sewn seam), suggesting the reuse of this precious velvet. Set in a gilded wooden frame, professionally fitted in the 20th century by the well-known Mechelen framing house Ulenspieghel (label to the reverse). 2. Liturgical runner (26 x 74 cm) Matching runner in red silk, a showcase of workshop craftsmanship of the highest order, combining two refined techniques. The polychrome scrolls, flowers and rosettes are worked in fine tambour (chain stitch) embroidery in silk — peach, cream, olive green, yellow and burgundy — a technique that reached its height in the 18th century. The small berries are spirally coiled chain-stitch rosettes. The three large foliate motifs are executed in heavily padded silver relief: tightly wound silver thread over a padded core, secured with red silk veining stitches and finished at the base with minute coiled wire (cantille) spirals. Concealed behind the central motif is a bunch of grapes in ochre and cream chain stitch — the Eucharistic counterpart to the wheat on the panel. The edges are trimmed with bobbin-made metal lace with a silk core; beneath it an older galloon survives — witness to a long history of use. The runner is mounted on a dark red velvet band and is remarkably heavy — proof of the generous use of genuine metal thread. Condition Given their respectable age, both pieces are in very good condition. The natural oxidation of the metal thread and the mellow patina underline their authenticity. The embroidery is remarkably complete and intact. Dimensions • Panel: 75 x 39 cm (including frame) • Runner: 26 x 74 cm