Alms chalice; Spain, 18th century.

Alms chalice; Spain, XVIII century.
Silver.
Weight: 546 g.
With punches.
Measurements: 25 x 15 x 15 cm.
With a circular foot and high font, this chalice presents a sober finish where the design is based on the modeling of the forms. The area of the goblet is divided in two by a bulge in the center. The chalices called limosneros or also patriarchs, are a type 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 Baby 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.