Sanctuary lamp 1700 - 1750

This sanctuary lamp was made by Juan Antonio Dominguez in the early 18th century, likely from silver. It is an elaborate piece, constructed from repoussé, and chasing – hammering the metal from both sides, to create raised and recessed areas. The bowl’s weighty appearance is deceptive; silver is a relatively soft metal, and these techniques require great skill. The labor would have been divided among those specialized in particular tasks. Such intricate metalwork would have reflected the status of the church or patron who commissioned it. The lamp is not just an aesthetic object. It was intended to hold a flame, perpetually alight, as a symbol of faith. By considering the object’s use, as well as the ways in which the material was manipulated, we begin to understand the profound cultural significance of this work. This challenges the traditional art historical focus on painting and sculpture, and prompts us to recognize the artistry inherent in craft traditions.