Antique baroque chalice and paten. Gilt silver. Montagny. Paris, France 1836

Antique baroque chalice and paten in gilt silver. Montagny. Paris, France 1836

Magnificent and solemn antique liturgical set composed of a chalice and matching paten, crafted in gilded silver and dated to the year 1836, according to the inscription engraved on its base. Both pieces bear the official Paris, France hallmarks used between 1819 and 1838, visible on the rim of the cup and on the base of the chalice, as well as on the surface of the paten. This superb ensemble is an extraordinary example of sacred art from the first third of the 19th century, with a clear Baroque influence in its exuberant decoration and profound symbolism.

The chalice is richly decorated from the base to the rim of the cup, with a lavish and symbolic style that makes it a true jewel of religious silverwork. The circular base features a spectacular high-relief composition, centered on three oval medallions surrounded by clusters of grapes, sheaves of wheat, reeds, and winged cherub heads, all crafted with impressive detail and depth. One medallion shows Jesus on the cross in a dramatic and expressive scene. The second depicts Jesus in the robe, carrying the staff and wearing the crown of thorns, symbolizing his Passion. The third medallion illustrates Saint Peter at the moment of his denial of Christ, before the rooster crows, a scene rich in emotional and spiritual value.

The node of the chalice, robust and ornamented, is also adorned with Eucharistic references: vines, wheat stalks, and reeds, symbols of the consecrated wine and bread. Moving upwards towards the cup, the richness of the decoration continues. This upper section is adorned with three medallions signed "Montagny," probably Jean-Pierre Montagny, a 19th-century French artist known for his medals and religious works. The medallions beautifully depict the three Theological Virtues: Faith, with a cross; Hope, with an anchor; and Charity, holding a child. Between these medallions, the surface is completely covered with vegetal motifs: grape clusters, vine leaves, sheaves of wheat, and interlaced reeds forming a harmonious and deeply symbolic visual tapestry.

Jean-Pierre Montagny (1789–1862) was a renowned French engraver and medalist of the 19th century. He spent much of his career at the Monnaie de Paris, creating numerous commemorative and religious medals of high artistic and technical quality. Montagny was distinguished by his ability to represent historical and religious themes with a high level of detail and expressiveness, becoming one of the most esteemed engravers of his time. His signature on medallions and religious pieces like this chalice confirms both its authenticity and its collectible value.

The interior of the chalice, finished in bright gilding, reflects light intensely, creating a contrast with the exterior workmanship. Inside the base, there is a Latin inscription: "ESTO PROPIA MIHI PECCATORI. DEIPARAE VIRGINI PECCATORUM ADVOCATAE. G.S.D.C. ANNO S. 1836." which translates as: "Be merciful to me, a sinner. To the Virgin Mother of God, advocate of sinners. G.S.D.C. Holy Year 1836."

The inclusion of Montagny's medallions in this chalice directly links it to the most exquisite French sacred art and a period of splendor in liturgical silverwork when objects of worship were conceived as vehicles of beauty and spirituality. Montagny did not only engrave individual medals but also participated in more ambitious decorative projects like this one, where his signature stands as a testament to the collaboration between artisans and artists in the service of faith and art.

The paten, also in gilded silver, features at its center a beautiful circular engraving containing the IHS monogram, set against a perfectly preserved smooth background. This is surrounded by a finely engraved crown of thorns, symbolizing the Passion of Christ. Beneath the monogram, a flaming heart pierced by a cross is clearly visible, alluding to the Sacred Heart. The central iconographic ensemble is engraved with precision and great symbolic strength. The paten is also very well preserved, without deformations and with uniform gilding.

A piece of high quality and profound spirituality, ideal for a collector of sacred art or for a priest or seminarian wishing to use it in Eucharistic celebration. Its imposing presence and symbolic richness make it perfect for reintroduction into the Church, for use in a parish, or as a standout piece in a museum of religious art. A unique opportunity to acquire a historic signed chalice, with all its original elements, and with the weight and presence of a major piece.

Measurements: Chalice: 29.8 x 14.8 x 9 cm (11.73 x 5.83 x 3.54 in)

Weight: 630 g
Paten: Ø 16.5 cm (6.5 in)
Weight: 121 g
Total Weight: 751 g