The sacred vessel in which the consecrated Host is exposed for adoration.
The monstrance, from the Latin monstrare, "to show," is the vessel that displays the Blessed Sacrament for the veneration of the faithful in Exposition and Benediction. At its heart is the lunette, a crescent clip of gold that holds the consecrated Host upright behind crystal.
A sunburst of gold
The classic Baroque monstrance surrounds the Host with rays of gilded metal, a radiant sun whose centre is Christ himself. Mounted on a tall foot and node, it is the goldsmith's supreme liturgical commission, often set with precious stones.