Marble altars (credence tables)
The altar (credence table) is a sacred place in the temple where the proskomedia (preparation of gifts for the Eucharist) is performed. During the sacrament of the proskomedia, the priest prepares bread (prosphora) on the sacrificial table and fills the cup with wine, praying for peace, salvation and blessing of all those present.
In ancient times, the altar (credence table) was located outside the altar and was a separate place where Christians laid the bread and wine brought. The priest selected the best gifts and used them to celebrate the Eucharist.
The prototype of the modern altar (credence table) was formed in the Middle Ages. Currently, it is a table located in the northeastern part of the altar — to the left of the Holy Table.
The meaning of the altar changes during the worship. At the proskomedia, it symbolizes the cave and the manger in which the newborn Jesus was placed. However, from the moment of birth, the Lord was ready for the sufferings of the cross, so the altar turns into the embodiment of Golgotha.
The last symbolic meaning is revealed at the end of the liturgy, when the Holy Gifts are transferred from the holy table to the altar. At this moment, he acquires the meaning of the Heavenly Throne, to which Christ ascended after the Resurrection.
What are the advantages of marble altar
In the Middle Ages, altars for churches were made mainly of wood, since this material was available and easily amenable to processing.
Later, stone was used for the products, in particular marble, which became the key to their durability. Marble altars have many advantages:
- The stone has high strength, withstands significant mechanical loads and the influence of environmental factors. It does not crack under temperature fluctuations, does not fade or burn out in the sun, does not deform under the influence of water. Marble altars are capable of preserving functionality for centuries.
- Thanks to the beautiful natural texture and the variety of shades of the material, each sacrificial table created by the craftsmen turns out to be unique. The beautiful appearance of the marble emphasizes the solemnity and sanctity of the place of the proskomedia, and also harmonizes with any temple interior.
- Marble altars are easy to clean and require minimal maintenance. This greatly facilitates the task of maintaining cleanliness in the place where divine services are performed.
- The altar can be decorated with carved ornaments, which, due to the use of undercutting techniques, turn out to be deep and voluminous.
The custom-made product can be complemented with cast decorative elements with gilding and silvering.
Where can I order a marble altar in Ukraine?
You can place an order for the individual manufacture of an altar (credence table) made of marble on the website of the Dialit company. To do this, leave a request by filling out the feedback form, or call the number listed on the website. We offer a full range of services: from the development of a design project to the delivery of a finished structure and its installation in the temple premises.
After receiving the application, the company’s manager sends the product catalog to the client, calculates the preliminary cost of the desired option. The design project developed by our specialists is submitted to the customer for approval before launching into production.
In the production of marble altars, we work with the best grades of stone imported from Greece, Italy, Turkey, India and Portugal. Marble carvings are made by hand, which ensures elegance in every detail. Brass casting with gilding and silvering harmoniously combines with marble.
We cooperate with both domestic and foreign customers. If necessary, we will arrange the delivery of finished products in Ukraine and abroad.