French Silver Monstrance, 19th Century

Spectacular 63-cm French Monstrance in Gilded and Hallmarked Silver. 19th century. Excellent condition, original case

Spectacular French monstrance made of solid gold-plated and hallmarked silver, 63 cm tall, crafted in the 19th century. This is a rare piece due to its unique engraved decoration and design, which sets it apart from other monstrances of the same period. The silver is in perfect condition and the gold plating is flawless. This monstrance is a particularly beautiful piece: it retains all its parts (including the lunula, the piece designed to hold the consecrated host inside the viril) and bears a series of hallmarks attesting to its value and authenticity. It comes with its original black-painted wooden case, which has helped preserve the piece's excellent condition.

The base, knop, and neck of the monstrance display magnificent engraved decoration, rich in scrollwork and decorative details. On the base, we can see a classic motif found in this type of piece: the Agnus Dei, or Lamb of God, a symbol of Christ the Redeemer. The knop and stem are decorated with clusters of grapes and ears of wheat engraved in the silver, surrounded by striking scrollwork. The sun-or upper section-features the classic viril (a capsule with a glass door where the consecrated host is kept) at its center, surrounded by cloud-like scrollwork and resting on a series of grape clusters and ears of wheat. The ensemble is crowned by a highly ornate Latin cross.

In addition to the classic hallmarks indicating the origin of the silver and the silversmith's mark, this monstrance also bears a very unique stamp. It is a mark located exactly on the opposite side from the hallmark indicating French silver, and on it we see a strange motif that appears to depict two insects facing each other. This is a "bigorne," a mark used to guarantee the authenticity of the silver and thus prevent counterfeiting. This detail enhances the appeal and rarity of this fantastic silver monstrance, making it a truly special piece.

The rare decoration and age of this piece, combined with its impeccable condition, make it a first-rate item destined for the finest collection of religious silverware.

Dimensions: Height: 630 mm. Width (ends of the spokes): 310 mm. Base: Width: 170 mm. Depth: 12 mm. Weight: 1,350 gr.