Beautiful French Ciborium in Gilded Solid Silver with a metal base. 19th century

Beautiful French Ciborium in Gilded Solid Silver with a Metal Base. 19th Century

Magnificent French ciborium made in the 19th century. It has come down to us in excellent condition and is a highly decorative and unique piece. The base of the ciborium is made of silver-plated metal, and the cup is solid gold-plated silver; the contrast between the two tones creates a beautiful design, full of timeless elegance. The ciborium is profusely engraved across its entire surface, featuring designs alluding to the Eucharist and scenes related to the Christian faith.

The base of this piece is solid and wide, and it features three medallions depicting female saints. Among them, we can see three motifs carved into the metal that are recurring in the iconography of the sacrament of the Eucharist: ears of wheat, grape clusters on the vine, and reeds. The first two symbolize bread and wine, while the reeds represent the strength and flexibility of Christians. Above the base, the knop is also decorated with leaf-shaped motifs.

The base of the ciborium is a beautiful metal filigree formed by gracefully curving, plant-inspired volutes. Resting upon them is the solid silver cup, gilded and very well preserved, bearing two hallmarks: one featuring the initials D and A, and the other a head of Minerva, indicating the piece's origin (France). Placed atop the cup is the ciborium lid, designed to protect the Sacred Hosts kept within it. The lid is decorated with simple motifs engraved into the metal and features a cross at its center.

Dimensions: Width: 110 mm. Height: 220 mm.