Plaque, made in Léon, Spain around 1530.

Silver plaque, square bottom with slightly protruding base and rounded top. Chased and pierced with a scene of Christ buffeted.

Dr W.L. Hildburgh Bequest

Acquired by Dr Hildburgh from the Ole Olsen Collection, Copenhagen. A group of 23 plaques were mounted on an ebonised modern casket from which they were removed when acquired by the museum. Comparison with works in other collections suggests that they were made by a Spanish artist working under German influence, possibly Enrique de Arfe.

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.

In the style of Enrique de Arfe

This plaque is part of a series showing scenes from the life of Christ. They would probably originally have been part of a large religious object such as a custodia. Custodias were particularly important in Spain at this period. They were often very large and designed not only to display communion wafers but to be paraded through the town during important processions such as the Corpus Christi celebrations. These plaques are thought to have been made by a goldsmith associated with Enrique de Arfe. De Arfe was one of the most successful Renaissance silversmiths in Spain. He trained in Cologne in Germany but spent much of his career on commissions for Spanish cathedrals.

This plaque shows Christ after his arrest being mocked by the soldiers of Pontius Pilate. He sits wearily whilst the jeering soldiers brandish cudgels.

M.510:11-1956