Menardt

Chalice-shaped baptismal font in bronze, made in 1484 by Johannes de/von Novavilla [a/p inscription]. Drawing in Speltz (1994 c1910: 297) shows the font shaped exactly like a chalice of the period: the basin tapers off lightly to meet the centre-ring, a broad rope motif; the base is in the shape of a truncated cone. The basin sides have several registers: below a rim decorated with foliage, small squares containing the Crucifixion and other scenes [the source is difficult to read] alternating with blank spaces with small medallions or rivets; under this, an inscription runs all around; below the inscription a band of floral motif; below this, another inscription with the name of the craftsman; two more levels with rivets before the centre ring. At oppsite ends on the upper basin rim, two metal loops, probably from the cover locking hardware. The lower part of the conical base has several bands of floral motif. [NB: the 'Novavilla' could be a Latinised form of 'Neuville'].