Vilnius, 1635

The chalice was procured in 1635 by Prepositus (Provost) Petras Smiarovskis for the community of Canons Regular of the Lateran Basilica, which had just recently settled in the Antakalnis suburb. The chalice, marked with an inscription noting his donation, is the oldest piece of heritage pertaining to the Canons Regular of the Lateran Basilica in Vilnius. Adding to the historical value of the piece is its artistic quality, while the abundant ornamentation and masterful metalwork showcase the high craftsmanship of Vilnius jewellers in the first part of the 17th century.