This small figure may be one of the few remaining fragments of the custodia of Cuenca Cathedral in Spain. The custodia was a very large silver object used for religious processions such as the annual Corpus Christi ('body of Christ') parade. The Cuenca custodia was broken up when the cathedral was looted by French soldiers in 1808.
According to legend, St Christopher showed his devotion to God by carrying travellers across a river. One day, he carried a child across the raging stream. Gradually the child grew heavier and heavier until Christopher felt as if he were carrying the whole weight of the world. When they arrived on the bank, the child revealed himself as Christ. In 1969, St Christopher was removed from the Catholic calendar of saints because of doubts as to his historical authenticity.
Physical description
Figure of St Christopher leaning upon a staff and carrying the infant Christ on his left shoulder.
Place of Origin
Spain (made)
Date
ca. 1530 (made)
Artist/maker
Becerril, Francisco (possibly, maker)
Materials and Techniques
Silver, raised and parcel-gilt
Dimensions
Height: 10.00 cm, Width: 5 cm, Depth: 4 cm
Object history note
This figure is probably from the custodia of Cuenca Cathedral which was looted and broken up by French soldiers in 1808.
Purchased at Saragossa by J.C. Robinson.
Historical context note
Saints and Symbols
Like most religions, Christianity has a rich language of images and symbols. This iconography would have been clearly understood in the past but it may be less familiar to modern eyes.
Though often decorative, the symbols used on religious metalwork also refer to the function and significance of the objects. The contemplation of religious motifs can draw believers into a deeper understanding of their faith. Complex theological themes can be represented in a visual form. A chalice, for example, might be adorned with the tools used in the Crucifixion (the ‘Instruments of the Passion’) to direct the viewer’s mind towards Christ’s sacrifice and his death on the cross.
The use of images has caused controversy throughout Christian history. While supporters held that imagery glorified God and helped believers understand their faith better, critics attacked its use as superstition and idolatry.
Saints
Christians venerate saints as men and women who, through the holiness of their lives, became especially close to God. The saints include martyrs who suffered and died for their faith as well as great teachers and preachers. Their lives provide an example and inspiration for the faithful. Roman Catholics also believe that saints can intercede on their behalf with God. In Christian iconography, saints are usually depicted with a distinctive object or ‘attribute’ associated with their martyrdom or works. For example, St Bartholomew, who was skinned alive, holds a flaying knife, and St George is shown with a dragon.
Descriptive line
Figure of St Christopher, silver parcel-gilt. Spain, around 1530.
Bibliographic References (Citation, Note/Abstract, NAL no)
The Golden Age of Hispanic Silver: 1400-1665, Charles Oman, HMSO 1968.
La Custodia de la Catedral de Cuenca, Dimas Perez-Ramirez, 1985
Exhibition History
Saints and Symbols (Sacred Silver and Stained Glass Galleries, the Victoria and Albert Museum 22/11/2005-22/11/2005)
Labels and date
St Christopher Carrying the Infant Christ
This small figure may be one of the few remaining fragments of the custodia of Cuenca Cathedral in Spain. The custodia was a very large silver object used for religious processions such as the annual Corpus Christi ('Body of Christ') parade. The Cuenca custodia was broken up when the cathedral was looted by French soldiers in 1808.
According to legend, St Christopher showed his devotion to God by carrying travellers across a river. One day, he carried a child across the raging stream. Gradually the child grew heavier and heavier until Christopher felt as if he were carrying the whole weight of the world. When they arrived on the bank, the child revealed himself as Christ. In 1969, St Christopher was removed from the Roman Catholic calendar of saints because of doubts as to his historical authenticity.
Spain, about 1530. Silver, partly gilded
Museum no. 178-1864 [22/11/2005]
Materials
Silver
Techniques
Raising; Parcel gilding
Subjects depicted
St. Christopher
Categories
Metalwork; Religion; Christianity
Collection code
MET
