ANCIENT CILICE

This wrought iron cilice, from an ancient monastery in northern Spain, is a remarkably austere instrument of penance. Its design consists of a chain of rigid links, connected by small curved fasteners, some of which end in inward-facing points. The assembly, both rudimentary and functional, attests to a strictly utilitarian purpose, intended to cause continuous discomfort and remind the wearer of their spiritual commitment to suffering and humility.

The advanced oxidation of the metal suggests ancient craftsmanship and prolonged use. This cilice, designed to be worn around the waist or a limb, exerted constant pressure, amplified by the small spikes that dug into the skin with each movement. Unlike more elaborate models, this one relies on a simple yet effective structure, where the friction of iron against flesh was sufficient to maintain persistent pain.

Used in practices of bodily mortification, this object was not merely a demonstration of faith but embodied a true discipline of both body and mind. Its prolonged use reflected a deliberate pursuit of renunciation and a quest for purification through suffering.

Today, this metal cilice remains a poignant relic of these ascetic rites, a reminder of a time when faith was expressed through physical ordeal, and when every pain endured was seen as a step closer to the divine.

PERIOD : 19th century
DIMENSIONS : 64 cm
SIZE : 25"

A copy of a cilice from the same period is held by the Louvre Museum in Paris, see here

The cilice, a voluntary instrument of bodily mortification, was widely adopted in various Christian communities as a means of spiritual discipline. It was intended to combat temptations while cultivating an identification with the sufferings of Jesus Christ during His Passion and the spiritual rewards that resulted from it.

                                                                                             Learn more about the cilice