Fantastic Set of Chalice and Paten in Solid Silver Contrasted. France, XIX Century

Striking set of items for the Eucharist composed of a chalice and a paten, both made of gold-plated sterling silver. The two pieces are quite ancient, having been made in France in the 19th century. With its simple beauty and elegant design, this set draws powerfully our attention because of its discreet sobriety and timeless look. The delicate golden tone of the silver makes a clear difference with similar articles and provides it with class and personality. The chalice has a wide circular base that narrows upwards, acquiring a subtle cone shape until it joins the stem. The only decoration of this part is a circular fringe composed of finely engraved volutes. In the middle of the front part, a baroque Cross stands out and creates and lovely transparent effect when superposed on the fringe. The base bears an engraved inscription: DIHARCE BAYONNE, the silversmiths name and the city where the piece was made. The stem is cylindrical, even and solid, adorned with three nodes: a bigger central and two smaller ones. Over it, the cup is smooth and is decorated with a fringe similar to that on the base, located in the center. The silversmiths hallmark and the one corresponding to the country (the profile of Minerva goddess) are present in the different parts of the chalice, and also in the paten. This piece itself bears a Greek cross engraved in the center as the sole decorative detail. This sterling silver French set shines with quality and beauty. These features are reasons enough to turn it into the star of a good collection of religious antiques. Measurements: Chalice: Width: 4.5 in/ 11.5 cm. Height: 7.8 in/20 cm. Weight: 339 g. Paten: Diameter: 4.7 in/12.8 cm. Weight: 146 g.