A rare and interesting linen, silk and goldthread embroidery, probably an antependium, with scenes from the life of Saint Paul of Thebes, probably French late Gothic, 15th century

depicting twelve scenes from the Saint's life, flanked by worshipping angels and centred by the Resurrection of Christ

Engelen, Museum van Gerwen-Lemmens, Valkenswaard 1994, cat. no. 47, pp. 84-85.

In overall good, slightly frail condition with some minor wear, loose threads, tears and stains to the fabric and minor fading to the colours consistent with age. There are some small 19th century restorations, especially to the first four panels. An exceptional and attractive piece.
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Saint Paul of Thebes (circa 230-341), also known as Saint Paul the First Hermit, is traditionally regarded as the first Christian hermit, an honour in modern times generally accorded to Saint Anthony of Egypt. The legend according to his biographer Saint Jerome, Vitae Patrum (Vita Pauli primi eremitae), is that Paul fled to the Theban desert during the persecution of Christians (249–251) under the Roman emperor Decius. There he led a life of prayer and penitence in a cave, living on the fruit of a palm tree and the bread brought to him by a holy raven, dying at the age of 113. It is said that Anthony of Egypt visited Paul shortly before his death and later buried him. Paul is often represented with a palm tree, symbolizing the source of his sustenance, or with two lions, who allegedly dug his grave.