Six onion-roof towers supporting heavens

[Koen G]

Bluetoes: I agree that some aspects of the items can only point towards vessels. But I also see why some people see these as towers, since in most cases the base is quite thick. If the VM images were crystal-clear, we wouldn't be so confused about them

As I've said before, I think that for whatever reason the word "ciborium" with its two meanings lies at the basis of the central Rosette. 


The most similar vessels I've found, especially to the rightmost one, are ciboriums, lidded chalices for holding the host.

Some links:
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Here's a late 15th century example from Siena, showing more architectural possibilities: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login to view.
(Although these may be developments that are too late to have any relevance for the VM).

So it gets interesting when you also take into account the other meaning of "ciborium", which is "(2) A canopy resting on columns over the altar."