Many of the street shrines in Venice have metal gates protecting the sacred image inside. The decorative metal work is often beautiful though it can make photographing the inside of the shrine a challenge.:)
This shrine, close to the Rialto market, has a metal sunburst or floral pattern on its gate. There's been a shrine at this location since 1310 - the original shrine was probably dedicated to San Matteo (St. Matthew); there was a now-demolished church dedicated to San Matteo nearby.
The sacred image inside this shrine today is a statue of the Madonna and Child. Sometimes Jesus is a baby but in this case, he's an exuberant toddler throwing his arms out to bless us.
There's another interesting metal feature of this shrine. On either side, the marble is carved with an image of a vase or urn, and a little piece of metal is inserted in the carving so that a floral offering can be attached. So charming!
The photos above were taken in 2010. Here's an interesting comparison below - the same shrine as seen in 2008. Lots of changes!
The sacred image was a framed painting of Mary, not a statue, and there aren't any green sprigs in the metal thingamajigs on the sides. Looks like the marble has been cleaned since 2008 too.
See a list of upcoming Saturday Photo Hunting themes on Gattina's website here.
Comments (6)
Hi Annie, this is such a lovely shrine. The metal design is very beautiful. And how interesting that baby Jesus is an older toddler here. Great observation and find. I also like the two metal holders on the side.
A wonderful take on this week's theme. Have a great weekend.
Posted by Kathy (Trekcapri) | July 13, 2012 10:00 PM
Posted on July 13, 2012 22:00
Hi Annie --
Are the protective gates meant to protect from theft? If so, how sad -- but how wonderful then that additional artistry resulted.
Posted by YTSL | July 13, 2012 10:20 PM
Posted on July 13, 2012 22:20
This is a beautiful take on the metal theme!
Posted by magiceye | July 14, 2012 7:07 AM
Posted on July 14, 2012 07:07
Beautiful! :)
Posted by Sue St Clair | July 14, 2012 7:58 AM
Posted on July 14, 2012 07:58
Very beautiful metal pictures !
Posted by Gattina | July 15, 2012 3:44 PM
Posted on July 15, 2012 15:44
Very beautiful and a great idea for the theme. I was at the beach for a long weekend and didn't participate this week.
Posted by Carver | July 15, 2012 5:58 PM
Posted on July 15, 2012 17:58