Embellished silver cruet

Inv.: 60861
Date: V century A.D.
Materials: Silver with gilding
Measurements: 18.7 cm tall, 7 cm wide, 5.5 cm at base

The amphora-shaped cruet is subdivided in seven zones by a braid motif.  In the central part there are the busts of Christ, St. Peter, St. Paul, and two other apostles depicted inside medallions.   The vessel, dating from the V century A.D., was used to hold wine or water for domestic or liturgical use.  It came to the Museo Sacro from the Albani Collection but was originally unearthed in the Valerii house on the Celian Hill during the pontificate of Benedict XV (Lambertini, 1740-58).  The connection with the important late-antique family makes this object of great interest for both historical and religious studies of this period.

STATE OF PRESERVATION:

  • The cruet has various problems with the oxidation of the metals’ surface

  • Lacunae and fractures have caused problems with its structural conservation

RESTORATION PROCESS:

  • Over-all cleaning

  • Removal of previous restorations

  • Consolidation and protection of the whole object

Total Cost: $10,000.00