PYX
Any metal box or vessel in which the Blessed Sacrament is kept or carried. The term is more aptly applied to the small round metal case (usually gold-plated) used by a priest to carry a few hosts on his visitation to the sick. but the larger ciborium is also called a pyx. (From the Greek puxis, box.)
Historical Accuracy: The Battle of the Turks at Malta did occur in 1565. All of the rest is quite fictional.
A Girl Can Dream Can’t She?
It’s the same dream each and every time. I am in Malta looking out at the shoreline, as was my duty as a Knight of Malta in 1565 AD. Sometimes my day dreams get the better of me, as this is a beautiful coastline. But my oath as a Knight, well, this is something sacred that I do today.
No day dreams for me! I am on watch when I spy the Turks ships anchored off shore, their flags waving, as they invade our land! I watched helplessly as they closed in on our Church in the harbor. Sound the alarm!
I vault over low walls and clamber down ladders racing against time. I must save our holy relics!
There is fire, chaos, shouts of despair and pandemonium. Sounds of clashing shields and clanging swords ring out. Flaming arrows pierce the sky. The Church! It is aflame! The fire had nearly reached the alter. I waste no time, as I cradle Pyx, Ostensorium and all that I could enfold in my cape. I dash dodging and weaving and I finally reach the church door. Flinging it open, I round the corner towards the wall. Can I make it to the citadel? It is there, near a wall I will bury our holy relics to keep them safe during the invasion I’ll return soon and restore it to the Alter. A crack rings out, flames, Darkness envelopes me. Down… down… down …
I awaken huddled over my desk. It’s 2:am I see the partially eaten turkey sandwich, research papers & that hard fought archeology permit, pushed to one side. The Maltese Archeological Society is one tough customer. Caliper, and other tools of the trade are on either side of the Pyk.
We used high-tech and low-tech tools to find this cache of relics. Our research leading up to our permit was extensive as well. This find might make my team famous. However, I secretly give weight to my recurring dream for bringing us closer to this historic place in time. No one ..would believe me. For now, it’s my own little secret.
About the Artist:
Susan is unabashedly eclectic in her art. Influences are varied and include her love of archeology, fine art, folk art, and sheer experimentation. Susan’s work is found in private collections all around the world.
When not creating, you can find Susan running, hiking, kayaking and exploring all things art always. Her large family cheers her on.
Susan worked in the Fortune 500 world before having time (And energy!) to follow her passion.
“Two of the highlights of my art career include serving as the illustrator for an Etruscan archeology study in the Piaini di Rossi just outside Sienna Italy. Dig by day, wash finds, examine, measure and then illustrate. Slave labor of love to be sure!”
“Next is starting The Artists’ Gallery. It has all of the love, passion and energy that I can muster each and every day for the past seven years. And I know that every artist that is part of this big art family feels as I do. And it shows. I am blessed to be a part of it.”
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