Gian Giacomo Poldi-Pezzoli opened his private collection to the public in 1881. An interesting collection of paintings dating from the 14th century, fine artisan displays of gold work, enamel work, Murano glass, ceramics, furnishings, textiles, lace, tapestries, clocks, arms and armour. This red velvet altar cover is just one example of the fine quality materials and workmanship of the textiles used for church decorations and clothes of the noble classes of the Renaissance era.