French Silver Monstrance, XIX Century

Spectacular 24,6 inches in height French gold-plated silver monstrance with hallmarks, made in the 19th century. This is a very special piece because of its rare engraved decoration that distinguishes it from similar pieces made in the same time. The silver is in wonderful condition and the gold-plated finish is impeccable. This monstrance is especially beautiful: it preserves all its parts (even the lunula or lunette, the piece designed to hold the Blessed Sacrament inside the ostensorium) and bears a series of hallmarks that guarantee its value and authenticity. The piece comes in its original black-lacquered wooden case, an element that has helped to preserve the monstrances good condition.The monstrances base, node and stem display a magnificent engraved decoration, full of volutes and decorative details. At the base we can see the Agnus Dei or Lamb of God, a classic Christian image that symbolizes Christ the Redeemer. The node and the stem are embellished with grape bunches and wheat stalks engraved in the silver, surrounded by big volutes. The shrine located at the top has the classic ostensorium in its center (a capsule with a glass door where the Blessed Sacrament is stored) surrounded by cloud-shaped volutes and resting on a series of grape bunches and wheat stalks. The whole piece is crowned by a decorative Latin cross.As well as the typical hallmarks indicating the silvers origin and the silversmiths mark, this monstrance also bears a very special mark. It is located exactly opposite the hallmark for the French silver and depicts a strange image: two insects, one facing the other. It is a bigorne, a mark used to guarantee the silvers authenticity and prevent falsifications. This detail reinforces the great interest and rare quality of this wonderful silver monstrance, turning it into a really special item.This pieces rare decoration and ancient age, together with its impeccable condition, turn it into a first-class item bound to become part of the best collection of religious silverware.Measurements: Height: 63 cm / 24,6 inches. Width (ends of rays): 31 cm / 12,1 inches. Base: Width: 17 cm / 6.6 inches. Depth: 12 cm / 4.7 inches. Weight: 1.350 gr.