Sacred Vessels
Censer Boats
Censer boats, the small vessels that hold the grains of incense, carried by the boat-bearer for every solemn incensation.
About this collection
About Censer Boats
The boat holds the incense that the priest spoons onto the coals, and it is carried by the boat bearer beside the thurifer. This collection offers incense boats in polished and lacquered brass, in Gothic, ornate, gargoyle and cathedral designs, and one silver-plated boat. Most come with a matching spoon, and listings give the boat length, height and spoon size.
Matching a boat
Many boats are made to accompany a particular censer, so choose one that matches the style and finish of yours. A boat that is easy to hold and open helps a young server. Listed prices currently run from about $305 to $1,115. Call or request a quote if you would like a matched censer and boat. Freight is billed separately. See also censers and censer stands.
Censer Boats
In the Sacred Liturgy
The incense boat, named for its traditional shape like a small ship, is the vessel that holds the grains of incense before they are placed on the burning charcoal in the censer. It has a hinged lid and comes with a small spoon. It is often carried by a server called the boat-bearer, who walks beside the thurifer, the server who carries the censer.
When incense is to be used, the boat-bearer opens the boat and offers the spoon to the priest. The priest spoons incense onto the coals and blesses it with the sign of the cross, and the fragrant smoke rises during the Mass, at Vespers or at Benediction.
Incense boats are usually made to match the censer, in brass or silver-plate, sometimes gilded. Many are engraved or decorated with crosses and other Christian symbols, and many rest on a raised foot so they can stand on the credence table until they are needed.
and the smoke of the incense rose with the prayers of the saints from the hand of the angel before God
Related categories
More in Sacred Vessels
Made for your church
Need it custom?
Looking for a different size, finish or design? Tell us what your church needs and we will prepare a quote.