Cross, silver, made by Pierre I Delezat, France 1538.

Silver, parcel-gilt on a wooden foundation with iron tang. The silver is applied in the form of thin sheets wtih stamped decoration. The ends of the cross are ogee-shaped quatrefoils with a triangular projection in each angle; at the intersection of the arms is a square. All these features are bordered on both of the main sides by a gilt corded rim soldered to the metal below.
The front of the cross has an embossed figure of Christ wearing a gilt loincloth. Above is a scoll shaped titulus inscribed INRI. The quatrefoils at the top of each arms are stamped with: on the left, the Virgin Mary; at the top, the Pelican in her Piety; on the right, a kneeling figure of St John; at the bottom, Lazarus rising from the tomb. The back of the cross has an embossed figure of St Blaise wearing a bishop's mitre. Each arm has a quatrefoil bearing one of the symbols of the Evangelists. The main sides of the arms are decorated with stamped Renaissance acanthus stems and the narrow sides with a Gothic pattern of a diaper enclosing four-petalled flower heads.

Given by Dr W. L. Hildburgh FSA

This cross has been identified by M. Jean Thuile as the cross made by Pierre Delezat for the church of Beauteville in the district of Mirepoix.

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.

This cross was made by the French goldsmith Pierre I Délézat for the parish church of Beauteville in the Languedoc. The contract drawn up on the first of December 1537 stipulated that Delezat was to be supplied with the silver to make the cross as well as a further sum to pay for his work. The cross had to include the parish saint, St. Blaise and to be finished by the following January. A parchment drawing was supplied which was approved by both parties. Surviving crosses by the same maker show that he reused stamps from previous work to make the figures of the Virgin Mary, St John, Lazarus rising from his grave and the pelican which can be seen in the plaques on each arm of this cross.

Each figure on the cross has a particular meaning. St John and the Virgin Mary are often represented at either side of Christ on the cross. Lazarus was raised from the dead by Christ and here can be seen sitting on the edge of his tomb. The resurrection of Lazarus can be seen as a precursor for the resurrection of Christ. The pelican, who was believed to feed her young with her own blood in times of famine, is used as a symbol for Christ's sacrifice on the cross.

M.8-1950