2-737-445 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Paschal Candlestick, c. 1525-1550. In Roman Catholic practice, a large candlestick holds the Paschal Candle, blessed and lit for the first time on Easter eve, then used on significant occasions throughout the year. Despite its religious function, the decorations here are entirely secular-ranging from panthers and bound satyrs to the heads of raptors and goats. These elements derive from ancient Roman sculpture and were especially popular among intellectuals in northern Italy, who were actively exploring connections among pagan traditions, ancient philosophy, and Christianity.