Calvary (sculpture)
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A Calvary (Calvaire in French) is a type of monumental public crucifix most commonly found in Brittany in France.
The Calvaire is distinguished from a simple cross by the inclusion of three-dimensional figures surrounding the Crucifixion itself, typically representing Mary and the apostles of Jesus, though later saints and symbolic figures may also be depicted.
The oldest surviving Calvaire is at the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Tronoën in the town of Saint-Jean-Trolimon, in south Finistere, near the Pointe de la Torche. This is raised on a large base which also includes carved representations of the Last Supper and scenes from the passion. Calvaires played an important role in Breton pilgrimages known as Pardons, forming a focal point for public festivals. In some instances the Calvary forms part of an outdoor pulpit or throne.
Calvaires are to be found in large numbers throughout Britanny, and come in many varied forms.[1]
The most notable Calvary monument outside Brittany is at Lourdes. This was specifically intended to represent Breton Catholicism. It was created by the sculptor Yves Hernot in 1900 as a gift to Lourdes from the main Breton dioceses: Rennes, Vannes, Quimper and Saint-Brieuc.[2][3] The monument comprises a single central cross set within a raised square base at each corner of which a statue of one of the witnesses to the crucifixion is placed.
[edit] Gallery
 The Breton Calvary at Lourdes designed by Yves Hernot. |
 15th century Calvaire at Notre Dame de Tronoën, Brittany. |
 the Calvaire at St Jean Tolimon, in Finistere |
 Calvaire at Saint-Tugen Chapel, Primelin, Brittany (second half of the 16th century). |
 Calvaire in Pleubian. |
 Calvary of Protest in Tréguier |
[edit] References
- ^ New York Times, Brittany's Church Towns Harris, AP, October 16, 1994
- ^ Lourdes Official Website
- ^ Don Sharkey, After Bernadette: The Story of Modern Lourdes, Kessinger Publishing, 2005, p.92.
