Late 20th century
Germany, Munsterschwarzach, Aldemar Délger OSB
Gilt silver, enamel inlays
PFM IM 3214

A The Benedictine metal workshop in Munsterschwarzach, Germany, was commissioned by Archabbot Andras Szennay (1921-2012) to produce a series of modern liturgical instruments from 1978; a processional cross, a crosier, chalices, and Communion vessels, The modern-shaped chalice gilded on the inside is the work of Brother Aldemar Dolger; its foot is decorated with a gilt-framed enamel picture of Saint Martin dividing his Cloak with a beggar.
New items were added to the monastic community’s liturgical collection during the 21st-century reconstruction of the basilica as well. The renovation in 2012 primarily strived to restore the monastic character of the church. Based on the designs of John Pawson, the religious space, satisfying contemporary needs and fit for devoted prayer and meditation, created an austere church interior purified of superfluous extravagance (including the Storno furnishings). Made for the reconsecration ceremony, the white damask vestment matches the renewed church interior in its glow and simplicity. The coarsely-woven, damask-based, linen lappet applied to the miter used for festivities is decorated with geometric gold-thread patterns and quartz and amber gemstones inserted into its embroidery.