Ostensorief

Ostensorief is a liturgical vessel used in Christian worship, particularly in Roman Catholic practice, to exhibit the consecrated Eucharist for public devotion. The term comes from Latin ostensorium, meaning "display" or "showing," and in Dutch it refers to the monstrance used to expose the host during Eucharistic adoration and processions.

Typically, an ostensorief features a transparent window, often made of glass or crystal, through which the consecrated host can be seen. It is mounted on a stem or base and may be adorned with rays, a crown, or other ornamental motifs. The device is usually crafted from precious metal such as gold or silver and may include enamel, gems, or intricate engraving. Some versions incorporate a small reliquary or container for the host behind the display window.

History and use: The use of ostensoria developed in medieval Europe to publicly display the Eucharist during processions such as Corpus Christi and during periods of Eucharistic exposition. In ordinary liturgy, the host is reserved in a tabernacle when not on display; during adoration, the ostensorief is placed on the altar so that the faithful may view the Blessed Sacrament. Variants exist across Catholic, Anglican, and some Lutheran traditions.

See also: Monstrance, Eucharistic adoration, Corpus Christi, tabernacle.