Romanesque baptismal font

PERIOD : LATE 12th CENTURY

ORIGIN : SOUTH OF BRITAIN, FINISTERE OR MORBIHAN, FRANCE

Height : 33 cm
Diameter : 60 cm
Intern diameter : 42 cm


Baptismal font is a major element in the internal architecture of great Romanesque Church. More commonly called “a stoup” its purpose was to contain the holy water for the baptism.
Formerly, it took place on the baptistery where a few catechumen came the same day to receive the benediction. Over the years, the custom to bless the newborn babies spreads.
From the 11th century, Baptismal font takes place in every church, and the date of celebration is not restrained to the three special days - Easter, Pentcost and Chrismas day - like before. Consequently, Baptismal font tended to become smaller in size.

The white granit polygonal basin is carved in high relief. It creates a certain play with light, emphasizing the contrasts between bright and shadow. The outer surface is adorned with ornaments in regular order and fluid forms.