The aforementioned award will be placed on the head of the Immaculate Conception by Bishop Gerardo Melgar, representing the Holy See, next Saturday afternoon, May 7th, in the Plaza de España of Herencia.
After two years of postponements, last Saturday in the Herencia Parish, the presentation of the crown created by Seville goldsmith Fernando Marmolejo took place, made from donated jewels, gold and silver objects, precious stones and materials from the people of Herencia. For several years, the inhabitants of Herencia have searched their drawers, closets, trunks, and cabinets to recover valuable objects that have been kept as family memories, inheritance or wedding gifts. In this way, rings, bracelets, earrings, chains, cutlery, and other silver and gold objects have been gathered and used as the basis for this unique piece that symbolizes the devotion and affection of an entire town.
The Hermandad de la Inmaculada Concepción de Herencia indicated: “It’s exciting to know that the memories and feelings of all those who love our Patroness will forever be on her head as a symbol of unconditional love.”
On the other hand, the renowned goldsmith, who has worked for brotherhoods throughout Spain and especially for the most important ones in Seville, explained: “When I stood in front of the Immaculate Conception, I was surprised by the way she was placed on her precious altar of worshippers and I also witnessed the devotion that the people of Herencia have professed to their Mother for centuries, and that’s when I felt the need to tell it in my work.” Additionally, he could not overlook that we are in the middle of La Mancha, and that the Order of St. John of Jerusalem has always been linked to this Marian devotion.
A Crown full of symbols: Marmolejo detailed one by one the symbolism of all the elements that make up the work. In this way, we can appreciate the Cross of St. John, the coat of arms of the municipality, the coat of arms of the Vatican, the diocese and the emblems of the Parish and the Brotherhood. The Crown consists of a basket, imperials, and a halo. It has taken as its central inspiration the grandiose painting that presides over the main altar of the Parish and its frame.
Spanish post in Presentada la Corona para la Patrona de Herencia
