Chalice; José Santa Cruz, Córdoba, c. 1780.

Chalice; JOSE SANTA CRUZ; Cordoba, c. 1780.
Silver.
Marker; Martinez Moreno.
Presents faults.
Measurements: 23,5 x 14 cm.
Of circular foot and high shaft, this chalice presents a sober finish where the design falls on the modeling of the forms. The area of the cup is divided in two by a filament that is located in the center, in fact the upper area has a golden finish. The chalices called limosneros or also patriarchs, are a typology of chalice that was born in the time of Carlos I. It was at this time when the custom was popularized by the kings of Spain, to offer three chalices to the Child Jesus. Until the reign of Alfonso XIII, all the monarchs, on the day of the Epiphany, presented in offering three different chalices, representing gold, frankincense and myrrh, the gifts made by the Magi to the Baby Jesus. Once the ceremony was over, the chalices were either donated to the church or given by the kings or by the major almoner to convents or private individuals.