A simple and robust holy water stoup carved from a single block of local limestone. The stoup consists of a cylindrical shaft with slightly chamfered edges, surmounted by a broad, octagonal basin with a pronounced, tapering undercut. The form is functional, devoid of ornamentation, and characterized by thick proportions that suggest early medieval workmanship.

The surface is heavily worn and pitted, showing traces of limewash and accumulated patina from centuries of use. The basin interior is shallow and irregular, consistent with the heavy erosion seen elsewhere on the piece. Despite its simplicity, the proportions are well balanced, with a strong vertical emphasis and a clear sense of massing.

Stylistic Context

The overall austerity and monolithic form are typical of Romanesque liturgical stonework found in smaller rural churches throughout the Berry and Touraine regions. Its roughly tooled surface and lack of moulded detail suggest local production using readily available stone rather than the refined work of later Gothic ateliers.

Such stoups, placed near the entrance of the church, held holy water for ritual blessing upon entry and departure. Their continued survival in parish churches across central France reflects both the durability of Romanesque stone carving and the continuity of medieval devotional practices.

Condition

Structurally sound though significantly weathered. The basin rim shows considerable rounding and surface loss from long use. The stone has been whitewashed multiple times, and there are areas of minor spalling, particularly around the base.

Summary

This plain limestone stoup, likely dating from the 12ᵗʰ or early 13ᵗʰ century, is an example of the enduring Romanesque vernacular tradition in rural ecclesiastical furnishings. Its unadorned form and massive simplicity contrast markedly with the more elaborate Renaissance and 19ᵗʰ-century liturgical furniture found elsewhere in the region, making it an eloquent witness to the early phases of Christian ritual architecture in the Indre.