Impressive Antique Monstrance in Excellent Condition. France, XIX Century

Gorgeous antique ecclesiastical monstrance, made in France in the late 19th century and in very good condition. The monstrance is a very rare model made of sterling silver and shows many hallmarks in different parts that testify for the silvers quality and origin. It comes in its original storing case and draws our attention for its lovely design, baroque in style and with an unbelievable attention to detail. This fact and the good condition the monstrance is in turn it into a real precious-metal craftwork, more than one hundred years old. Each piece is original from the period, including the lunette. This is made of gold-plated silver and shows the classic sun-like shape, typical of this kind of items. In the center we can see the removable capsule composed of two glasses; between them there is a place to put the Sacred Host (the Body of Christ in the Eucharis). Surrounding this capsule we can see a fringe composed of small carved crystals that provide the design with light and attractive. The glass panes and the carved crystals are perfectly preserved and there is not an only piece missing. Around them we can see a series of overlaying silver details: a flower-shaped frame, a fringe composed of volutes and a series of slim sunrays. Crowning the monstrance there is a stylized Latin cross, and under the lunette we can see a stand flanked by two delicate angels in praying attitude. All the piece stands on a four-legged base, also made of sterling silver and decorated with images of praying angels. All the monstrances pieces bear the same hallmarks: Minerva goddesss head (symbol of the French silver) and the silversmiths mark (the letters E and F with a radiant heart between them). The storing case is the original one and is well preserved, with all the locks in working order. For its imposing presence and the silversmiths delicate work, this antique monstrance deserves an honor place in any room or collection. Measurements: Width: 13.3 in / 34 cm. Height: 28.3 in / 72 cm. Weight: 1603 g.