Ivoren kaften van een sacramentarium met geometrische patronen before 1864

These images depict ivory covers of a sacramentary, likely crafted by Gérard Bianchi. Ivory as a material carries a specific weight, both literally and culturally. The geometric patterns carved into the ivory are not merely decorative, but speak to the tradition of meticulous craftsmanship required to work with such a dense material. Consider the labor invested in procuring the ivory, potentially sourced through exploitative colonial networks, and the skill needed to transform it into these intricate designs. The act of carving itself, removing material to reveal form, speaks to the dedication and patience of the artisan. These covers transcend mere functionality, becoming objects of devotion and status, reflecting the social and economic power of those who commissioned and used them. Recognizing the value and the work required in creating this artwork challenges the hierarchy that often separates art from craft, and invites us to consider broader historical context.