Wax Votive Offering Of Saint George

Saint George is the patron saint of many professions and places: knights, horsemen, soldiers, scouts, fencers, and archers. He is also the patron saint of several countries and cities, including England, Georgia, Bulgaria, Ethiopia, Portugal, Catalonia, Venice, Genoa, and Barcelona. Furthermore, he is invoked against diseases such as the plague and leprosy, and against venomous snakes. This explains the choice of the Beguines… The Beguines were lay women who placed themselves under the protection of the bishopric, a practice dating back to ancient times. In return, they were expected to perform work for the church. Here: a frame sometimes called an ex-voto, depicting Saint George in a wax medallion brought back from pilgrimage… While working with their skillful hands, they also engaged in conversation, and when they broke their silences, it was to discuss their condition as women. These scholars, who were at the forefront of today's equality movements, bequeathed to us their meticulous works, often displayed in the museums of the Beguinages or hanging in churches. The close-up photographs will easily transport you to the heart of the work. Don't get lost in the meandering bouquets of pearls or the interlacing of gold threads.