Eucharistic dove
Type:
Liturgical objects
Date:
Early thirteenth century
Location or Findspot (Modern-Day Country):
France
Dimensions:
17.9 × 8.8 × 21.1 cm
Description:
Eucharistic doves are metallic vessels designed to hold eucharistic wafers. The hinged lid in this dove's back could be opened to allow access to the inner cavity. Suspended above the altar, the colorful copper bird would suggest the presence of the Holy spirit, often depicted as a dove in Christian art. The example reproduced here was made in Limoges (France), a famous center of metalwork. The dove's feathers were rendered with engraving and colorful champlevé enameling.
Relevant Textbook Chapter(s):
8
