Liturgical Strainer

Liturgical Strainer
Gaul, 6th century
Silver, nielle, garnets
L. 0.172 m; diam. 0.046 m
Acq. 1986; Cl. 23248

Strainers have been used to filter wine and snow since ancient times. The liturgical role of this piece is confirmed by the inscription in the name of bishop Albinus. Attributed to Saint Aubin, bishop of Angers, ca. 529-550, this dating would correspond to the presence of the garnets on the handle.