Casket
Casket
Philippines, Manila, 17th century
Silver, semi-precious stones
This dome-shaped casket was used to store the Eucharist (consecrated host) during the rite of Holy Communion. The casket was originally decorated with precious gems, some of which have
been lost. Chinese and Filipino silversmiths established workshops in the towns of Binondo, Tondo, Quiapo, and Santa Cruz in the 17th century. They were guided by missionaries, who gave them liturgical paraphernalia from Europe and the Americas to use as models.
They created new, hybrid artworks by incorporating their own designs, seen here in stylised Chinese waves that appear around the edges of the casket.
San Agustin Museum, Manila