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Cross on a Pyx

German (Hildesheim)

Not on view

The form of this object is unique, making its function difficult to discern. A crucifix with a typically Romanesque Christ, upright and seemingly weightless, stands upon a container shaped like a building and resting on a lion’s paws. The container has been interpreted to be a pyx, or receptacle for the host (Eucharistic wafer), to be used for the Holy Communion of the sick. The object additionally may have served as an altar cross.

Cross on a Pyx, Copper alloy with gilding, German (Hildesheim)

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