Lectionary Calendar
Saturday, April 5th, 2025
the Fourth Week of Lent
There are 15 days til Easter!
Attention!
For 10¢ a day you can enjoy StudyLight.org ads
free while helping to build churches and support pastors in Uganda.
Click here to learn more!

Bible Encyclopedias
Altar Ledge

The Catholic Encyclopedia

Search for…
or
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y Z
Prev Entry
Altar Lanterns
Next Entry
Altar Linens
Resource Toolbox
Additional Links

Originally the altar was made in the shape of an ordinary table, on which the crucifix and candlesticks were placed. By degrees, behind the altar a step was introduced, raised slightly above it, for candlesticks, flowers, reliquaries, and other ornaments. This step was called the altar-ledge. Later the tabernacle was added as a stationary appends of the altar and at its sides and behind it other steps were placed. They are sometimes called degrees or gradini. The front of these steps was sometimes beautifully painted and decorated. The gradini of Brunelleschi's church of Santo Spirito, Florence, display beautiful miniature groups of subjects from the Passion of Christ.

Bibliography Information
Obstat, Nihil. Lafort, Remy, Censor. Entry for 'Altar Ledge'. The Catholic Encyclopedia. https://www.studylight.org/​encyclopedias/​eng/​tce/​a/altar-ledge.html. Robert Appleton Company. New York. 1914.
 
adsfree-icon
Ads FreeProfile