vesica

[vuh-sahy-kuh, -see-kuh, ves-i-kuh]

noun

plural

vesicae 

1. Anatomy.,  a bladder.

2. vesica piscis.

vesica

/ ˈvɛsɪkə /

noun

1. anatomy a technical name for bladder

2. (in medieval sculpture and painting) an aureole in the shape of a pointed oval

Word History and Origins

Origin of vesica¹

First recorded in 1675–85, vesica is from the Latin word vēsīca

Word History and Origins

Origin of vesica¹

C17: from Latin: bladder, sac, blister

Example Sentences

In the tympanum, within a vesica shaped panel, is sculptured our Lord in Glory, holding in His left hand a book and a cross, while the right is raised in the act of blessing.

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Within the vesica piscis, artists usually represent the virgin herself, with or without the child; in the figure before us the child takes her place.

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The north door at Ely, the whole of the surrounding stone-work of which is elaborately carved, is surmounted by the figure of the Lord enthroned within a vesica, while adoring angels kneel before Him.

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This figure, also known as the vesica piscis, is common in ecclesiastical seals and as a glory or aureole in paintings of sculpture, surrounding figures of the Trinity, saints, &c.

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Above these, on either side of a great vesica enclosing a representation of our Lord, are two shrines, one marked “Relics,” the other, which stands on the side of greater honour, is marked Scs.

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