What is the meaning of the furniture term Ambry?
Answer:
The term ambry refers to a type of cupboard or cabinet that is typically used for storing religious items or sacred vessels. Historically, ambries were commonly found in churches, monasteries, or cathedrals, and were used to hold items such as chalices, candles, hosts, or other ceremonial objects used during religious services. Ambries often had ornate designs and were made of durable materials like wood or metal. In modern usage, the term ambry can also refer to a small storage cabinet or niche used for storing items other than religious articles. A large cupboard with doors. The interiors are fitted with shelves for storage. A recess for the storage of goods.
Ambry refers to a type of furniture that originated in the medieval period and was commonly found in churches and monasteries. The word ambry is derived from the Latin word ambreus, which means storeroom or cupboard.
In its traditional form, an ambry is a small cabinet or cupboard that is typically mounted on a wall, although freestanding versions also exist. It is usually made of wood, with a hinged door that can be opened to access the interior storage space. The door is often adorned with intricate carvings or decorative panels.
The purpose of an ambry is to store sacred items, particularly religious vessels and paraphernalia. Churches would use ambries to store chalices, censers, sacramental oils, and other objects used during religious ceremonies. The ambry provided a secure and organized space for these items while keeping them easily accessible when needed.
Ambries were often located close to the altar or the sacristy, ensuring that the necessary items for religious rituals were readily available to the clergy. In larger churches, multiple ambries might be present to accommodate different types of sacred objects or to separate items used for different purposes.
Over time, the design and function of ambries have evolved. Modern-day ambries may still be found in churches, but they are also used in homes and offices. They are now commonly used for general storage purposes, such as storing books, documents, or personal belongings.
In contemporary furniture, an ambry can refer to a variety of storage solutions or cabinets that are reminiscent of the original medieval ambries. They may retain the features of hinged doors and decorative elements but can come in different sizes, materials, and styles to suit various aesthetics and storage needs.
An ambry is a type of furniture that originated in medieval times and was primarily used in churches to store sacred objects. It is a small cupboard or cabinet typically made of wood, often adorned with decorative carvings, and designed to keep religious vessels and paraphernalia organized and easily accessible. Modern-day ambries can also be found in homes and offices for general storage purposes.
Exploring the Fascinating Realm of Ambry: A Sanctuary of Sacred Items
Ambry, also referred to as an aumbry, is an intriguing storage space found in churches and chapels. Known to safeguard precious religious artifacts and objects of great significance, this article unveils the insightful world of ambries and their historical background. Join us as we delve into the purpose, history, and types of this unique ecclesiastical storage provision.
Understanding the Concept of Ambry:
Ambries are dedicated repositories, designed primarily for the safekeeping of liturgical vessels, holy oils, sacramental wine, and other sacred items utilized during religious ceremonies or services. With their origins rooted in ancient religious practices, these closets or cabinets have evolved over time in both form and function.
Historical Significance:
The concept of ambries can be traced back to early Christian churches, particularly during the medieval period. Often built into the walls near the sanctuary or altar, ambries were carefully crafted to ensure the preservation and easy access of cherished items used in sacraments. They served as guardians of these precious articles, protecting them from theft, damage, or desecration.
Types of Ambries:
1. Eucharistic Ambry:
Considered the most important type, the Eucharistic ambry houses the tabernacle, where the Blessed Sacrament is stored, primarily the consecrated Host. This ambry typically resides within the sanctuary, reflecting its significance in the Catholic faith.
2. Oil Ambry:
This category of ambry primarily safeguards the sacred oils used in various sacraments, such as the Oil of Chrism, Oil of Catechumens, and the Oil of the Sick. The oils are stored within smaller containers or ampoules, ensuring their proper preservation and accessibility.
3. Vestment Ambry:
The vestment ambry serves as a dedicated closet for clerical vestments, such as chasubles, dalmatics, stoles, and copes. These liturgical garments are stored within this ambry to maintain their pristine condition and protect them from any potential harm.
4. General Storage Ambry:
Occasionally, churches may also have a general storage ambry designed for miscellaneous items like sacramental wine, candles, liturgical books, and other sacred artifacts not accommodated by the other types of ambries.
Ambries play a vital role in ecclesiastical settings by acting as guardians of sacred items employed during religious services. This article has shed light on the historical significance and different types of ambries commonly found in churches and chapels. These sacred repositories not only preserve the sanctity of religious artifacts but also represent the reverence placed upon religious practices and traditions.