Antique Gilt-Silver Baroque Chalice. France, Circa 1870

Antique gilt-silver baroque chalice, made in France circa 1870 and profusely decorated from the foot to the cup. It is in fine condition, though the gilt finish which covered it is quite worn by the trace of time. The paten which comes with it is also made of gilt silver; the gilt finish would improve with a professional polish or renovation, but nevertheless the paten is finely preserved and keeps the original engraved decoration. Both the chalice and the paten have hallmarks which testify for their ancient age and quality. The chalices foot is a superb piece, with three key scenes of the Via Crucis: Peters Denial, Christ with the crosier, the cloak and the crown of thorns and the Crucifixion. The scenes are separated by wheat stalks, vines and reeds, symbols of the Eucharist and of the People of God. These images are also present in the node and the subcup. At the foots edge we can see some delicate hand-engraved cherubs heads, combined with scrolls. Over the stylish node which adorns the stem, the subcup has three oval medallions with representations of the Theological Virtues. The gilt-silver cup, amazingly preserved, crowns the chalice. For its striking decoration and its quality, this antique gilt-silver baroque chalice will be the most valuable possession of a priest who loves art pieces. Dimensions: Chalice: Foots Width: 5.71 in / 11.5 cm. Cups Width: 3.39 in / 8.6 cm. Height: 11.3 in / 28.7 cm. Weight: 534 g. Paten: Diameter: 4.96 in / 12.5 cm. Weight: 66 g. Total Weight: 600 g.