This cabinet card features Cardinal James Gibbons in his coronation portrait, taken around 1886. The sepia-toned photograph depicts him standing in a formal pose. He is dressed in traditional Roman Catholic clerical attire, holding a rosary in his left hand and wearing distinctive ecclesiastical garments. A crucifix is prominently displayed on the table beside him. Cardinal Gibbons is dressed in his clerical clothing. Note the following garments. 1) Cassock: A long black robe buttoned down the front, signifying his clerical rank 2) Zucchetto: A skullcap typically worn by clergy, indicating his episcopal office, 3) Roman Collar: A white collar worn by Catholic priests, 4) Sash/Cincture: A silk sash tied around the waist, symbolizing purity and obedience, 5) Surplice with Lace: A white garment adorned with lace, often worn during liturgical functions, and 6) Pectoral Cross: A cross worn on a chain or cord around the neck, signifying his role as a bishop or cardinal. Cardinal James Gibbons (1834–1921) was a prominent American prelate of the Roman Catholic Church. He served as the Archbishop of Baltimore from 1877 to 1921 and was elevated to Cardinal in 1886 by Pope Leo XIII. Gibbons was a key figure in the American Catholic Church and played a significant role in bridging the divide between Catholicism and American culture. His key achievements were as follows. 1) He was a Labor Rights Advocate. He supported the labor movement and the rights of workers, particularly during the rise of industrialization. 2) Ecumenism: Gibbons was a strong advocate for unity among Christian denominations. 3) Americanist Views: He championed the compatibility of Catholicism with American democratic values. 4) Publications: He authored The Faith of Our Fathers, a popular book explaining Catholic beliefs, which became widely read.
THE CABINET CARD GALLERY 