Bronze Baptismal Font, Hildesheim Cathedral: Overall view

The bronze baptismal font (ca. 1225) is evidence of the enduring tradition of bronze casting in Hildesheim. Four kneeling figures representing the paradisiacal rivers of Geon, Tigris, Euphrates and Phison support the bowl of the font. Allegories of Moderation, Bravery, Rectitude and Wisdom appear above them as small half-length figures, surrounded by bands. On the bowl are four relief panels that depict the Crossing of the Red Sea, the Baptism, the Crossing of the Jordan and, as a dedicatory image, the Virgin and Child, and four medallions show half-length figures of Jeremiah, Daniel, Ezekiel and Isaiah. Above them are the four Evangelists' symbols. The font cover is decorated with four reliefs depicting the Massacre of the Innocents (baptism by blood), Mary Magdalene Anointing the Feet of Christ (repentance), Charitable Works (atonement) and Aaron's Rod (symbolizing the virginity of Mary). Above are depictions of Jeremiah, David, Isaiah and Solomon.