he only sculpture of the Charles Bridge from white marble is Saint Philippe Benicius, the founder and general of the Order of Servits (1714, Michal Mandl). On the sculpture, Saint Philip is dressed in white robes, traditional for the order of servits, in his left hand he holds a branch of a lily, a cross and a book, and at his feet is a tiara symbolizing the rejected title of the Pope. Legend has it that after the death of one of the popes of Rome, Philippe Benicius was considered the most suitable candidate for the Pontiff's place. But being a very modest person and thinking himself not worthy of such a high mission, he hid in a cave, until another dad was elected. The inscription on the pedestal of the sculpture confirms this legend: "The fifth general of the Order of Servites Saint Philip Benicius is loved by God for modesty"
You are viewing a single comment's thread from:
