On this day in 935, Wenceslaus I, Duke of Bohemia (sometimes called "Václav the Good") was murdered by his brother, Boleslaus I (called "Boleslaus the Cruel"). Wenceslaus was remembered as a good and charitable ruler and his martyrdom elevated his legend. His life exemplified the virtuous concept of "The Righteous King" (Rex Iustis)—a leader who demonstrated piety, charity and vigor. He quickly became a subject of local veneration and was declared a saint in very few years. The legend of his goodness spread, especially his generosity giving alms to the poor, orphans, widows, and prisoners. He was crowned "King" after death and (in 1853) became the subject of the English Christmas carol, "Good King Wenceslas."
Before 1588, there was no formalized process in the Catholic Church for the canonization of saints. These are now referred to as the "Pre-Congregation" years, before Pope Sixtus V instituted the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. Since then, the process by which the cause for sainthood is investigated, determined and instituted is highly centralized and structured. Before 1588, local history, popular veneration and the authority of local bishops determined who would be considered a saint—a much looser and lenient process.
The Edwardian English Arts & Crafts brass candlesticks, shown above, were made around 1910. The flat brass plates are decorated with an engraved sprig of mistletoe—a discreet Christmastime embellishment. Imagine burning them while singing a hearty round of "Good King Wenceslas." Click on the photo above to learn more about them.
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