The Enigmatic History of Catacomb Saints
When archaeologists unlocked the catacombs of Rome in 1578, they unleashed a wave of religious fervor. Catholic officials disinterred skeletal remains, which they assumed to be early Christian martyrs, and had artisans reassemble them. Encrusted with gold and jewels, these skeletons went on display in lavish shrines across Europe, conveying the glory that awaited the Church’s devout followers in the afterlife. However, by the early 19th century, their saintly authenticity came into question, leading to a dramatic reversal of fortune where many relics were hidden from view or destroyed.
Photographer and author Paul Koudounaris gained unprecedented access to these so-called “catacomb saints.” Many had never been photographed for publication before. Revered as spiritual objects and then reviled as sources of embarrassment for the Church, their uneven history is marked by one constant: a mysterious, if unsettling, beauty. Koudounaris aimed to pursue this project to provide a new context for them, viewing them as fine objects of art rather than merely as failed devotional items.
Purpose of Decoration
The intricate decoration of skeletons was not merely an artistic choice, but served as a vital form of propaganda. According to Koudounaris, these skeletons, shipped northward and elaborately adorned, symbolized the glory reserved for those who remain true to their faith and are willing to sacrifice everything in its name. Consequently, this decoration offered a profound reminder of the heavenly rewards awaiting the faithful.
The Artisans Behind the Work
Most commonly, nuns were the artisans who decorated the skeletons, utilizing their skills in textile work, lace making, and beading to create ornate embellishments. When more specialized adornments were necessary, such as silver suits of armor, secular artisans were occasionally contracted. This artistic collaboration reflects a high level of craft, merging faith with artistry.
Offerings and Significance
It was considered a significant honor to work on these skeletons, as it was viewed as a service to God. Notably, many of the skeletons possess rings on their bony fingers, often gifts from the decorators as a form of lasting tribute. The elaborate adornments used, while perhaps not having specific meanings pertaining to individual jewels, symbolized the overarching idea of heavenly glory and reminded the local congregation of the spiritual rewards possible if they remained devoted to their faith.
Controversial Perceptions
While some might view these skeletons as eerie or ostentatious, the local populace often embraced them enthusiastically, counter to anti-Catholic sentiments. Protestant reformers criticized such displays as absurd representations of superstition prevalent in Catholic Europe. However, remarkably, there is no historical evidence suggesting substantial objections from the Catholic side against lavish expenditures on these decorative works. This relationship indicates the deep cultural and spiritual significance these relics held within communities.
© 2013 Paul Koudounaris
