Bratilo and Kosta Chalices
Type:
Liturgical objects
Date:
Late eleventh or early twelfth century
Location or Findspot (Modern-Day Country):
Russia
Medium:
Gilt-silver
Dimensions:
Height of 21.5 and diameter of 20.5 cm
Description:
A pair of large two-handled chalices once adorned the altar of the Rus' cathedral of Sviata Sofiia at Novgorod. One is called the Bratilo Chalice, after the craftsman who made it. His name is known from an inscription on the base written in Church Slavonic: “O Lord, help Flor your servant. Bratilo made this.” The upper rim has inscriptions in Greek that name saints (Petrilo and Barbara) and cite biblical verses relevant to the Eucharist. The figural imagery includes Christ holding a Gospel book, an orant Virgin, and saints Peter and Barbara. The Kosta chalice is similarly named for its maker and is almost identical to the Bratilo chalice. The main difference is that it features Anastasia instead of Barbara. There is no consensus on which was made first and whether they were produced for the same patron.
Relevant Textbook Chapter(s):
7
Repository and Online Resources:
• The chalices are now on display at the Novgorod Integrated Museum-Reservation.
• For more views, visit the Kornbluth Photography website.
Image Credits:
Genevra Kornbluth, Wikimedia Commons
