Naveta; Astorga, XVIIIth century

Naveta; Astorga, XVIII century
Embossed silver
Presents locality punch
Weight: 326 grams
Measurements: 16 x 21 x 9,5 cm.

Liturgical naveta in embossed and chiseled silver, with locality punch corresponding to Astorga. The form responds with fidelity to the typology of the ecclesiastical naveta, with body in the shape of ship, elevated on foot with turned stem of bulbous knot, and endowed with lid articulated in two valves that open symmetrically towards the sides, finished off each one by a small knob in the shape of pine cone or acorn. The whole rests on a wide circular molded foot, decorated with vegetal motifs and scrolls.

The function of the naveta is to contain the incense that will be deposited in the censer during the liturgy. The name of the object refers directly to its boat shape, a symbolic association that is not without theological significance. The bivalve lid allows access to its interior, and the spoon that usually accompanies it was used to carry the incense.