page_title: Peristerium
hierarchical_section_title: Peristerium
caption_attribution_description: English: Used for storing communion wafers, doves such as this were suspended above the altar to signify the presence of the Holy Spirit at the Mass. On this fine, colorful example, the sparkling glass eyes and shimmering enamels on the wings and tail highlight the richness of the material of the liturgical vessel. The wafers were stored in a cavity under a hinged lid on the bird's back.
context_page_description: A peristerium, or Eucharistic dove in the Western church, is a metallic vessel, in the shape of a dove, which can be hung over an altar, most often in Eastern Christian churches.
context_section_description: A peristerium, or Eucharistic dove in the Western church, is a metallic vessel, in the shape of a dove (pigeon), which can be hung over an altar, most often in Eastern Christian churches.
caption: Limoges enamel dove, Walters Art Museum
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