Nails, Hammer, Ladder and Pincers

These are all symbols linked to Christ's death on the cross. The Roman soldiers used nails to fasten down his hands and feet, and a hammer to knock in the nails. After his death, Jesus's followers placed a ladder against the cross. They removed the nails with pincers and took down his body.

The foot of this chalice also shows the ladder, the pincers and two whips.

  • Chalice with the ladder and other symbols on the foot
  • Ireland, 1590
  • Museum no. M.31-1929