Covering for image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Vilnius, 1677
Crown of the Blessed Virgin May, Augsburg (?), c. 1630-1655

Vilnius Bishop Mikalojus Steponas Pacas commissioned the silver-gilt framing for the painting. Demonstrating rare craftsmanship of jeweller’s art, it reflects the painted clothing and varied textures with great precision. Numerous holes in the framing were caused by people while attaching votive offerings, which were works of jewelry intended to show gratitude for the obtained graces. As early as in the 17th century, Trakai painting had several gilded crowns of varying sizes. Only one of them has survived and adorns the image in the church altarpiece. Other crowns belonging to the image are from later times. The photograph shows the largest gold crown embellished with enamel, pearls and gemstones.