Crosier
Author: José António de Queirós
Date: 19th century, middle
Material: Silver and gilt brass
Dimensions (cm): H 169 x W 21,5
Provenance: Guimarães, Irmandade de São Nicolau
Owner: Guimarães, Irmandade de São Nicolau
Inventory No.: MAS OD 9
The crosier of the image of Saint Nicholas is very elegant, with the crook decorated with foliage over a matt burin engraved background. The silversmith who worked for the brotherhood is not entirely removed from the Baroque inheritance, which is blended with forms and ornamental motifs of classical inspiration.
The Brotherhood of Saint Nicholas entrusted to the keeping of the Museu de Alberto Sampaio a nucleus of silverware in which the processional cross and the crosier of the respective patron saint with his life-size image are the most prominent pieces. This brotherhood counts more than three centuries of existence and the saint bishop, patron saint of students, continues to be worshipped by Guimarães academics, holding the traditional Festas Nicolinas in the first week of December in his honour.