The textile covering the Virgin Mary's throne has an intricate pattern of curving vine stems, a design that was often used by Bernardo Daddi for the cloth of honour on a throne. In this distinctive vine pattern the grapes symbolise the wine used for the Eucharist ,and thus the blood of Christ. This symbolic reference is reinforced by the blood red colour of the cloth.
The detail of the pattern was emphasised by the use of mordant gilding, which as well as complementing the other gilding on the panel, would have been a reminder to the viewer of the expensive materials woven with threads of gold (or threads made from gilt metal around a yellow silk core).
The designs of the silk woven in 14th century Italy were influenced by imported textiles from the Near and Far East, as well as from Spain. Luxurious brocades and silks were not only being imported from the East, but were also being manufactured in Florence and Lucca, both of which were weaving centres. As the Italian silk industry became more established, designs were created which incorporated some traditional motifs, such as vine leaves.
