Basilica di San Nicola Bari, Italy 2001 5 inches Painted glass
The 'Manna of Saint Nicholas' is transparent pure water formed in the Saint's tomb. When it is removed each May, the monks mix it with holy water and place it in smaller bottles, painted by local artists, for people to keep in their homes for devotional use. This local art of glass painting developed over the centuries because of the devotion to Nicholas and the miracle of the manna. These bottles are prized for religious devotion and also because they express a unique cultural-artistic heritage.
The 'Manna of Saint Nicholas' is transparent pure water formed in the Saint's tomb. When it is removed each May, the monks mix it with holy water and place it in smaller bottles, painted by local artists, for people to keep in their homes for devotional use. This local art of glass painting developed over the centuries because of the devotion to Nicholas and the miracle of the manna. These bottles are prized for religious devotion and also because they express a unique cultural-artistic heritage.
Click for back view