Procedure for dressing the statue and items of clothing

The clothes worn by the Infant Jesus of Prague consist primarily of a decorated robe and a mantle. A further integral part of the outfit is an under-robe known as a gown or alb, which cannot be seen. This simple white robe forms the first level of the outfit. Usually it is a white canvas shift with openings for the hands or with short sleeves. Sometimes it is decorated with simple embroidery or lace. The under-robe is pulled over the head of the statue and buttoned or tied at the back.

Above this gown comes the outer robe. It is similar in style to a child's dress and is also fastened at the back. This robe is an important part of the costume because the front of it forms the central part of the decoration. The patterns contain motifs with Christian symbols on a decorative background. Sometimes the sides and sleeves of the robe are also decorated. A lining is usually sewn in on the underside. The lower, most visible, hem of the robe is often decorated, for example with lace.

On top of this comes the mantle. The left side falls freely over the shoulder, while the right side is folded back to reveal the underside of the mantle. The upper fabric is usually used on the top on the left side and underneath on the right side. Some mantles fall over the shoulders without being folded back. In this case the upper fabric forms the top side and the lining the underside. The decoration is concentrated on the upper side of the mantle at the sides, sometimes covering the whole of the upper surface. The decoration forms a harmonious whole with that of the robe. The hems of the mantle are usually decorated in the same way as the lower hem of the robe.

Finally ruffs are placed on the wrists and neck, if they are not already part of the robe. They are usually made of strips of lace. In the Infant Jesus' left hand is placed the royal orb symbolizing his rule over the world. He then has an imperial crown fixed in its glass case above his head.

Purpose of dressing the statue – Colours of the robes – Museum