A large limestone baptismal font of Renaissance date,1 carved from a single block and resting on a short, spreading base. The bowl is octagonal in plan with rounded angles and deeply modelled decoration of acanthus-like leaves and egg-and-dart motifs, showing the influence of late Gothic and early Renaissance ornamental vocabularies. Four male heads, heavily stylised and now worn, project below the rim, possibly intended as prophets or apostles, though their individual features have been softened by time and overpainting.

The font retains a later circular wooden cover, roughly fitted to the bowl and likely added in the 19ᵗʰ century to protect the interior from dust and damage. The interior is plain and shows traces of limewash and sacramental use.

Stylistic Context

The form and ornament situate the piece within the transitional phase between Gothic and Renaissance carving in central France. The use of classical motifs such as the egg-and-dart, combined with residual medieval figural carving, is characteristic of Loire-Valley workshops of the mid-16ᵗʰ century. The robust modelling and somewhat naive handling of the faces suggest a provincial atelier, possibly connected to the Tours region.

Its survival within the small rural church of Saint-Blaise is notable, as many such early fonts were replaced in the 19ᵗʰ century. The nearby statue of Saint Jerome (also 16ᵗʰ c.) may have formed part of the same original furnishing scheme.

Function and Use

The projecting appendage at the rear, shaped as a shallow basin or drain, likely served as an overflow or vessel for washing the priest’s hands, connected with baptismal ritual practice. Given the relatively small capacity of the font, the ceremony would have employed a limited amount of water, symbolically poured rather than by immersion.

Condition

The font has been overpainted in a pale wash, obscuring some original surface detail, but remains structurally intact. Minor losses to the projecting heads and upper rim are visible. The wooden cover, though roughly made, has helped to preserve the inner bowl from further deterioration.

Summary

A rare surviving Renaissance baptismal font from the 16ᵗʰ century, this piece represents the continuity of traditional liturgical forms in rural Loir-et-Cher. Its hybrid Gothic-Renaissance ornament, sculptural heads, and distinctive rear basin reflect both local craftsmanship and the gradual diffusion of Renaissance motifs into provincial church furnishings.

• 1. The open heritage platform