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| Photo: OC-Travel |
The liturgical arts of the Patriarchal See of Lisbon are on full display in these few images. The rites and objects surrounding the patriarchal liturgy in Portugal are not alien to East or West. Clearly elements have been taken and borrowed from both and have outlived and absorbed other liturgical rites and traditions that developed on the westernmost fringes of the Roman Empire. The patriarchal liturgies have one thing in common: they each bear the indelible mark of the Roman spirit in their simplicity, severity and concision. Also, each is unique and particular.
All liturgical arts have a classical, universal and supertemporal character which is further accentuated by the words and music surrounding the rites - all valuable parts of the Church's living tradition, including the music (by way of the arts, music is the quickest channel to the soul).
It is impossible to understand the traditions built up around these liturgies if we do not understand the nature of the Church - for she is essentially a supernatural organism which transcends human cultures while transforming them to her own ends. It is a normal process that over the centuries local churches have developed fit instruments of worship for the Church's supernatural purpose.
As Newman insisted, the Church is not just a creed or a philosophy, but an imperial power, a "counter Kingdom." The liturgical cult and arts that develop over the centuries in every land are the external expression of the Church's spirit and an organ of her mission.
Online images of these objects from Lisbon are rare. I think it important for a new generation of liturgical scholars to be introduced to them. Hopefully these images will help to stimulate a continued conversation vis-a-vis their proposed continual usage.
Most of these items have fallen into general disuse and have unfortunately become obsolete. As someone who has spent hours of my life in tesoro museums such as this, as a general rule I am of the opinion these items ought not to be confined to museums, but rather should be kept in active use for service at the altar.
Above can be seen the Patriarch's altar missal with large print for sung Mass. Below can be seen the sedia used for Solemn Mass processions with matching flabellum.
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| Sedia nad flabellum |
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| Vestments made for the Patriarch in Portugal. Fascinating cuts, fabric and design work on display. |
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| The morse with sandals, buskins and cuffs for the alb. The cuffs are interesting to see and a nice touch. |
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| The papal tiara is seen on the arms without keys. The patriarch has the privilege to use the papal tiara on his arms. |
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| Detail of dalmatic. Notice the tiara without the crossed keys. |
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| Silk buskins with filigree gold thread work |
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| The pax and chalice with rare cover |
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| The Patriarch's study in his palace, now open to the public as an extension of the museum. |
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| Monstrance. Notice the height and mineral crystal for the glass. It matches the high ceiling of the cathedral. |
