SubscribeSan Agustin’s exquisite pulpit
One of the most elegant woodwork in the entire church must be the exquisite pulpit located at the corner of the transept and nave, epistle side of the church. The intricacies of the carvings, its uniqueness and age alone are worthy of mention. Commissioned in 1627, it cost 2, 413 pesos 
and is made from narra, a hardwood tree.
The pulpit is hexagonal. The upper part is the tornavoz, or the sound board topped by an image of a blindfolded figure carrying a cross. Just below it is a carving of the Holy Spirit. Below the tornavoz, and partly hidden from view because it is inside the pulpit is a relief of St. Augustine (right). It can however be seen from a distance.
Left, details of two of the columns. Middle, the blindfolded figure atop the pulpit. Below, inverted pineapple at the bottom of the pulpit which seems to be a common motif in many churches not just the San Agustin.
Above, three details of the panels that can be found on the middle part of the pulpit. These are recognizable symbols of the Augustinian order.
Estan Cabigas is a multiawarded blogger and freelance photographer based in Makati City, the Philippines. A true blue Cebuano, he makes stunning images and meaningful photo stories. He has writtten for CNN Go and his photograph was published in the May 2010 issue of the National Geographic Magazine. To know more about him and his photography, visit estancabigas.com.
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My flagellant image is Editor's Choice in the National Geographic Magazine May 2010 issue.
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