Filippo Sorcinelli, founder of the Atelier LAVS (Laboratorio Atelier Vesti Sacre), has been a prominent figure in the design and creation of sacred vestments for over 20 years. His atelier is renowned for its collaboration with the Office of Liturgical Celebrations of the Supreme Pontiff, having worked closely with Pope Francis since the early days of his papacy. Sorcinelli’s creations include the sacred garments worn during significant celebrations, including the Mass of Inauguration broadcast globally, as well as various Apostolic trips and liturgical ceremonies held in the majestic St. Peter’s Basilica.
For the burial of Pope Francis, as was the case for Pope Benedict XVI, a mitre crafted by Filippo Sorcinelli was chosen. This particular piece is made of white silk and is elegantly trimmed with traditional gold passementerie, adhering to the liturgical norms for papal funerals.
On a poignant day, November 3, 2014, during the Mass for deceased cardinals in St. Peter’s Basilica, Sorcinelli’s craftsmanship was again highlighted, demonstrating both a reverence for tradition and an adaptation to contemporary liturgical needs.
Sorcinelli shared his reflections on working with Pope Francis, describing him as “a surprising and consistent man” who embraced a sober yet profound approach to his public presence. He aligned his design philosophy with the vision established by the Second Vatican Council, emphasizing “noble simplicity.” Sorcinelli noted how his geographical roots informed the style of the vestments, drawing inspiration from medieval times and Giotto’s frescoes, leading to creations that have since inspired many other designers of sacred vestments.
He viewed Pope Francis as a Church undergoing an essential evolution, at times provocative yet new, with unknown prospects ahead. Sorcinelli believes that the legacy of Pope Francis will leave a significant impact, articulating a deep sense of change and a message of hope that he is grateful to have contributed to during this transformative period.
LAVS, operating from the picturesque town of Santarcangelo di Romagna, is dedicated to the study, design, and creation of sacred vestments, liturgical accessories, and furnishings for the Catholic Mass. The atelier’s journey began in Mondolfo, where Filippo Sorcinelli, born in 1975, developed a fascination for the sacred from a young age. His admiration for the vestments displayed in his local church, paired with the sound of the organ, sparked a lifelong passion.
Sorcinelli pursued an education in the arts, achieving a Master’s degree and later graduating from the Conservatorio Rossini in Pesaro. He further honed his skills at the Pontifical Institute of Sacred Music in Rome, establishing himself as an organist in various cathedrals and earning international acclaim for his improvisational talents.
During this time, he learned tailoring and embroidery from his aunt and sister, both seamstresses. A turning point arrived in late 2000 when a friend preparing for priestly ordination commissioned Sorcinelli to create his first chasuble. This led him to found LAVS in 2001, driven by a desire to explore new artistic pursuits in a previously uncharted field.
In 2013, Sorcinelli expanded his creative repertoire by founding a line of artistic fragrances under the name FILIPPO SORCINELLI, which adds an olfactory dimension to the sacred vestments. Each garment is accompanied by a carefully curated fragrance, infusing the experience of the vestments with a unique sensory element.
In addition to the main atelier in Santarcangelo di Romagna, LAVS operates two stores: one in Rome’s Borgo Vittorio, just steps away from the Vatican, and another in Assisi, both showcasing the atelier’s exquisite offerings and commitment to liturgical artistry.
Filippo Sorcinelli’s work at LAVS exemplifies a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity in the realm of sacred vestments. His lifelong dedication to craftsmanship and the sacred continues to inspire the Church and the broader community, marking a significant chapter in the evolution of contemporary liturgical art. As we remember Pope Francis and reflect on his profound contributions to the Church, the artistry of LAVS stands as a testament to the enduring significance of sacred beauty in worship.
Source and pictures: Maria Chiara Salvanelli | Press Office & Communication
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