Solid Silver Monstrance, 1830's

This striking piece is an antique sterling-silver monstrance, made in France in the 19th century and fully original from the period. The monstrance is designed to store the consecrated Host in the lunette (the top glass capsule) and stands out for its beauty and elaborate decoration. It bears hallmarks used in Paris between 1819 and 1838, in all its parts to testify for their being made during that date and with antique French silver of the best quality. This amazing piece comes in its original storing case, perfect to preserve it in optimal condition. The monstrances base is rectangular in shape and stands on four curved legs. Each side is decorated with an embossed motive, all of them related to different aspects of Christianity and Eucharist. One side shows off an image of the Agnus Dei (the Lamb of God) and the other is decorated with the image used to symbolize God: a celestial triangle with an eye inside surrounded by beams and clouds. The other two sides are smaller in size, and bear engraved images depicting vines with grapes, the symbol of Eucharistic wine. Over the base there is a vase-shaped silver piece decorated with two cherub heads and more images of bunches of grapes. The most important piece of the monstrance is the top part, that is, the one containing the lunette; it is original and antique and remains in great condition. The lunette is surrounded by an imposing group of sunbeams and clouds. This part stands on a silver piece that depicts a bundle of tied wheat stalks, a motive related to the Eucharist bread. Beautiful and very antique, this wonderful sterling-silver monstrance will shine in any collection or room. Measurements: Width: 8.6 in / 22 cm. Height: 26.3 in / 67 cm.