Chrismatory

Unknown

ca. 1200–1220 · Copper: engraved, chased, and gilt; champlevé enamel: lapis and lavender blue, turquoise, light and dark green, red, and white · Medieval Art

This ornamented box probably once contained holy oils, the use of which at baptism is noted by early Christian writers. Oils were also used for other sacraments, such as confirmation, the ordination of priests, and extreme unction, and for the consecration of churches. Few medieval containers for holy oils survive.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1200–1220

Medium

Copper: engraved, chased, and gilt; champlevé enamel: lapis and lavender blue, turquoise, light and dark green, red, and white

Culture

French

Department

Medieval Art

Credit line

Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917