Bedside stoup in Boulle marquetry and gilded bronze

The bedside stoup is a small, delicately designed devotional object, composed of a small basin intended to contain holy water and a plaque often decorated, as here in boulle marquetry. Catholics hang these stoups inside their home, either near the entrance to make it a sign of welcome, or, more frequently, in the bedroom, at the head of the bed, where it peacefully watches over the nights of its occupants. This modest stoup, silent witness to an intimate spiritual life, sometimes welcomes a few branches of blessed boxwood, symbols of blessing, or a carefully suspended rosary, ready to be used during evening prayers. The main role of the bedside stoup is to contain holy water, a sacred water which, morning and evening, becomes a gesture of faith. Upon waking, before starting the day, one dips the tip of one's fingers in it to trace the sign of the cross on oneself, asking for protection and guidance. In the evening, before going to sleep, this same ritual is repeated, ending the day with a silent prayer, under the benevolent gaze of God.
The use of bedside holy water fonts dates back to the first centuries of the Catholic Church, a time when faith permeated every aspect of daily life. These carefully crafted holy water fonts have always been handcrafted objects, shaped by hand with various materials according to the wealth of their owners. Some were carved in wood, others were made of earthenware, marquetry, silver or even gold for the wealthiest families. Each of these holy water fonts bore a careful decoration, often hand-painted, representing religious scenes dear to the hearts of believers: Jesus on the cross, the Virgin Mary, protective angels like the one presented or many other symbols of devotion.
Unfortunately, a large part of the old holy water fonts in France disappeared or were destroyed during the French Revolution of 1789. During this troubled period, marked by a policy of dechristianization, many sacred objects were lost, erasing a significant part of this religious heritage.
However, from the 19th century onwards, holy water fonts experienced a revival. They were then often made of precious materials, with particular attention to detail and quality of finishing. Some of them were unique pieces, made to order, proudly bearing the first and last name of their owner. These holy water fonts were often offered as gifts during major stages of religious life, such as baptism, first communion, confirmation or marriage, thus becoming tangible symbols of faith and family love.
Thus, the bedside holy water font, although rarer today, remains a touching testimony to a time when faith inhabited every corner of everyday life, reminding those who still possess it of the depth of religious and family traditions that are passed down with care.

Ref: VREUBQ1OA9