Caryatid group of a deacon and two acolytes

These three clerics hold objects used during celebration of the Mass. A deacon-distinguished by his stole and the maniple (a strip of silk worn at Mass) that drapes from his wrist-carries the pillow that supports the missal containing the text of the Mass. The acolytes hold a pitcher for the water or wine and the pyx, a container for the Eucharist. The group was a supporting element for the tomb of Saint Dominic in the church of the same name in Bologna. Arnolfo di Cambio created this sculpture in the shop of his master, Giovanni Pisano; he later became a master sculptor and architect, providing the initial designs for the cathedral in Florence and sculptures for its facade. (MCambareri, 2W02, 2004).