Antique Monstrance in Gilded Brass. France, XIX Century

Beautiful antique brass monstrance, made in France in the 19th century and in good condition. The monstrance comes in its original storing case, perfect to protect and transport the piece. It is well preserved, though the luna or lunette (the glass capsule that contains the Blessed Sacrament, that is, the consecrated host) is missing. Nevertheless, the rest of the monstrance is complete and remains as spectacular as when it was originally made, more than one century ago. With a stylized and charming design, this is an ancient piece. The monstrance has a circular base or foot, conical in shape and with polished surface. The part where the stem begins is decorated with delicate hand-engraved neo-gothic motifs. Over this part we can see the secondary node; the main node is just on top of it and is adorned with a medieval-inspired fringe. The sunburst is the top part of the monstrance: a removable piece, circular in shape and with a central opening designed to host the luna. This gap is closed by a glass door connected to the sunburst by a hinge. Framing the opening for the luna there is a fine decoration composed of embossed symmetrical spades with leaves inside. Surrounding the spades we can see the sunbeams giving the name to this part: stylized triangular pieces decorated with stripes or spheres and alternately disposed, creating a sunburst effect. At the top of the sunburst and crowning the monstrance there is a simple cross of clear medieval design. The storing case still fulfills its function, though one of the fasteners is missing and the wood is slightly combed so it cannot be perfectly closed. For its great beauty and stylized design, this antique brass monstrance deserves a very special place in a showcase containing a good collection of religious art. Measurements: Width: 10 in /25 cm. Height: 19.29 in / 49 cm.