The heretic was treated in a different way in comparison with the ordinary convict, because the aim was to save his soul even at the point of death. The fork with it's very sharp points struck deep into the flesh, on the breast-bone and under the chin, preventing every movement and obliging the victim only to murmur the words "I abjure", which showed repentance. Otherwise the heretic was sent to the stake.

Private Collection

Museum of the Royal House of Portugal