Monstrance
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Monstrance refers to the vessel used by the Roman Catholic Church to display the Eucharist, during Adoration. The word monstrance comes from the word monstrare, meaning "to expose". It is also known as Ostensorium (from ostendere "to show") and monstre/monstral (England).
In the Roman Catholic tradition, at the moment of Consecration the elements (or "gifts" as they are termed for liturgical purposes) are transformed (literally transubstantiated) into the actual Body and Blood of Christ. Catholic doctrine holds that the elements are not only spiritually transformed, but rather are actually (substantially) transformed into the Body and Blood of Christ. The elements retain the appearance or "accidents" of bread and wine, but are indeed the actual Body and Blood of Christ. This is what is meant by Real Presence; the actual, physical presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. Because of this belief, the consecrated elements are given the same adoration and devotion that is accorded to Christ.
Because Roman Catholics believe that Christ is physically present in the Eucharist, the reserved sacrament serves as a focal point of devotion. During Adoration, the sacrament is displayed in the monstrance, typically on the altar. When not being displayed, the reserved sacrament is locked in the Tabernacle.
In the service of Benediction, the priest blesses the people with the Eucharist displayed in the monstrance. This blessing differs from the priest's blessing, as it is seen to be the blessing of Christ, rather than that of the individual priest.
The monstrance is usually very elaborate in design, with the preferred form being a sunburst. (Instructio Clement., 5) Most often made of gold or other precious metal, and decorated with intricate sculpture work or other highly detailed designs. The monstrance is often made by hand by local or regional artists.
Before the current design, earlier "little shrines" of various shapes and sizes were used in different churches. The exposition of the monstrance during Benediction is accompanied by chanting or singing of the Tantum Ergo.