Large Silver Monstrance, 19th Century

Large French Solid Silver Gilded Monstrance, 83 cm Tall. 19th Century. In Original Case

This impressive gilded silver monstrance commands attention due to its large size, which is uncommon for this type of piece. It stands 83 centimeters tall and is a highly attractive object crafted with the utmost attention to detail. The silver is hallmarked in various places with stamps attesting to the piece's origin (France, 19th century) and its quality. The monstrance is a piece of silverwork of great aesthetic value and an antique in perfect condition. All of its parts are in impeccable condition, and even the rim used to hold the consecrated host inside the viril (a piece also known as a lunula or moon) is preserved.

The hand-carved decoration on the precious metal stands out for its beauty and meticulous craftsmanship. On the front of the base is the Agnus Dei (Lamb of God, symbol of Jesus Christ), while on the back we see a radiant triangle amid clouds symbolizing God the Father. The knop rising between the base and the sun is decorated with the Sacred Heart on the front and the Tablets of the Law on the back. Directly above the knop rises the sun, the most spectacular part of the monstrance. Supported by two charming putti heads-or child angels-it consists of the glass viril (the capsule in which the Body of Christ is kept) surrounded by classic sunbeams.

Beneath the viril, we can see a colorful carved motif depicting ears of wheat and bunches of grapes-motifs associated with the main elements of the Eucharist: bread and wine. Crowning the piece, a stylized Latin cross rises majestically. The monstrance bears the French silver hallmark (a profile of the goddess Minerva's head) and the silversmith's mark on its various parts. The piece is presented in its original case, a wooden box lined on the inside with clay-colored satin, with a vertical opening.

This impressive silver monstrance is a piece worthy of the finest museum of sacred art. Large in size and of great aesthetic power, it will delight even the most discerning of collectors.

Dimensions: Height: 830 mm. Width (ends of the rays): 400 mm. Base: Width: 230 mm. Depth: 180 mm. Weight: 1,500 grams.