The first liturgical ewer dates back to the medieval period, when wine and holy water were stored in pewter or silver containers. These liturgical furniture were often decorated with images and inscriptions in Latin. With the passage of time, jugs have evolved into more elaborate and artistic forms, with engraved details and the use of precious materials such as gold and silver.
Use of sacred ewers
Sacred ewers are mainly used during the celebration of Mass to pour water into the chalice and for the ablution of the hands of the priest or as furniture for churches. Moreover, they are also used during baptism, to pour holy water on the head of the baptized.
Materials
Liturgical ewers can be made of different materials, including:
- pewter;
- silver;
- gold;
- copper;
- bronze.
However, silver is the most common material, due to its resistance, its ability to resist corrosion and its beauty.
Evolution:
Over the centuries, liturgical jugs have become increasingly elaborate, with the addition of ornaments, engraved details and decorations with precious stones. However, during the twentieth century, liturgical art has been simplified, with a greater emphasis on functionality rather than ornamentation. Today, sacred ewers are often made of cheaper materials, such as brass, glass or ceramics, but they are still used in religious celebrations as a symbol of the holiness of holy water.
Other objects for liturgical supplies
Among the different sacred objects, the following ones stand out
- Chalices : goblets used during the celebration of mass to contain the wine that will be consecrated.
- Monstrances: sacred vessels in which the consecrated host is kept and shown during the celebration of Mass.
- Crosses: an important symbol of Christianity and always present in Christian churches
- The candlesticks and candelabra : supports on which the candles are placed during religious celebrations.
