Stories in Silver: St. Francis Xavier
The book brings to the public eye for the first time in 32 silver plates placed on the silver casket of St Francis Xavier in the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa. These plates described are pictorially the miracles of St Francis Xavier. It is executed by Silversmith in the year 1636.
The 32 silver plates are not just a visual representation of St Francis Xavier’s miracles; they are also a tribute to the artisanal craftsmanship of the Goan goldsmiths. These artisans, who were known for their silverwork, were commissioned in 1636 to create the plates, a task that would take several years to complete. The silver was chosen not only for its malleability but also because it was a fitting tribute to the saint—more accessible than gold but still regal in its own right.
Pantaleao's research revealed that these plates were crafted using the repose technique, a form of relief where metal is hammered into shape to create intricate designs. The level of detail in the plates is astounding—from the folds of St Xavier’s robes to the textures of the trees and landscapes in the scenes. Each plate was designed to reflect the most significant moments of Xavier's life, as captured through the lens of 17th-century craftsmanship.
The story of the casket’s silver plates is a testament not only to the life and miracles of St Francis Xavier but also to the cultural and artistic heritage of Goa. By bringing these images to light, Pantaleao has immortalized the work of the Goan goldsmiths and the legacy of St Francis Xavier, offering future generations a deeper understanding of this iconic religious figure.
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