Juan Antonio Sanz de Velasco

JUAN ANTONIO SANZ DE VELASCO (Valladolid, 1720-1778).
Naveta.
Silver.
With hallmarks.
Weight: 475,5 g.
Measurements: 16,5 x 15 x 8 cm.

The silversmith Juan Antonio Sanz de Velasco participated in the silver altar frontal of the Virgin of the Tabernacle of the Cathedral of Valladolid.
The stylized naveta that we present here rises on a circular foot from which emerges a molded stem that culminates in the main vessel, a boat-shaped body with a prominent prow and stern. Only the second is practicable (navetas could have one or two lids), with a hinged lid. The piece is decorated with vegetal motifs of incised palmettes.
The naveta is a type of religious silverware that appeared in the 13th century and whose function is to store the incense used during the rite. In the 15th century, perhaps due to the influence of overseas voyages, this type of pieces will begin to copy the shape of ships of the time, from simple navetas with the shape of the hull of a real ship to authentic masterpieces that include even the woodwork. It was also at this time that the naveta transcended the religious sphere and began to be used in table service, as a spice rack.