Paten is an altar consecration tool with a sigil or magickal symbol engraved or inscribed upon it. The most common symbol of the paten is the pentagram although some other symbols may be used such as the triquetra. The paten is symbolic of the element of earth, often found on a plate, from which bread is eaten during the ritual. It is typically used to represent the element of Earth during evocation, as a symbol which blesses items, as well as magically energizing that which is placed upon it.
