Baroque Culture in Rome: When a Cardinal Visits

On either side of the main altar are seen two credence tables.

In this case, each table is decorated with fine chargers and ewers from the XVII to the early XX century.  And notice the pax, ciboria and cruets?  This is an ancient tradition in the Roman Church and can sometimes be seen depicted in Rome frescoes.  This photo was taken at FSSP in URBE during the recent visit of a cardinal. 

The tradition of these credence tables in Rome is rich with history.  They were originally credences for the objects used for the liturgy, but then other silver was added and displayed (as in court banquets).  Originally set up only for cardinals/higher prelates, the tables later became customary simply as a decoration for great feasts, sometimes even with silver made specially for such occasion and some were specially designed by artists.  Even the pope had credences when he celebrated in St. Peter's.