The falda dates back to, at least, the fifteenth century. I would presume it as part of the regalia for a Pope in that period. One thing it did do: When standing at his cathedra or seated on the sedia gestatoria, the falda would flow down, having the effect of making the Pope seem taller than the other dignitaries present!
What was the purpose of this vestment?
ReplyDeleteMost likely it had a very practical purpose in the earlier times: to prevent the sacred and precious vestments (chasuble/cope...) from being soiled.
DeleteThe falda dates back to, at least, the fifteenth century. I would presume it as part of the regalia for a Pope in that period. One thing it did do: When standing at his cathedra or seated on the sedia gestatoria, the falda would flow down, having the effect of making the Pope seem taller than the other dignitaries present!
ReplyDelete