Antique Solid Silver Chalice, Ca. 1838

Gorgeous antique solid-silver chalice made in France in the 19th century (circa 1838). The chalice is fully decorated with Christian symbols and images of female saints, and comes with a silver paten. Both pieces bear antique hallmarks that make it possible to date them. Among them we can see a bearded man which corresponds to the silver dated between 1819 and 1838. The marks that contain a woman indicate that the chalice comes from Paris, while the image of Minerva goddess is the mark for ancient French silver. The chalices base bears three embossed images. One of them shows a cross in a sober landscape, and the other two depict grape bunches and wheat stalks (symbolizing the wine and the bread that take part in the Eucharist). The central node bears an abstract schematic decoration that we can also see at the base. These two parts are simple and sober, and create a wonderful contrast with the delicate and complex decoration of the cup. The cup is decorated with three ovals containing 3 female images that personify the 3 Theological Virtues. They depict Faith (Fides - Woman holding a chalice), Hope (Spes - Woman with an anchor) and Charity (Caritas - Woman with children). They are a common themes found on chalices in the 19th century. Between the medals we can see wheat stalks and grape bunches. The paten itself bears the engraved IHS monogram and an image of an engraved heart pierced by three swords.This antique silver chalice and paten make up a beautiful and historic set, worthy of inclusion in a good collection of religious art. Measurements: Chalice: Width: 5.3 in / 13.5 cm. Height: 11.2 in / 28.5 cm. Weight: 414 g. Paten: Diameter: 5.9 in / 15 cm. Weight: 73 g.