Antique Solid Silver Monstrance. France, XIX Century

Antique big-sized solid-silver monstrance with wonderful embossed decoration and in its original case. The monstrance comes from France and is dated in the 19th century. It remains in excellent condition, though the lunette is missing. Nevertheless, if the owner wishes an antique solid silver lunette can be provided to be fitted in its place by a goldsmith. Otherwise the monstrance boasts an impressive look for the detailed and complex decoration that adorns the silver surface and turns it into quite a remarkable piece. The monstrances base is embellished with mane moldings and grape bunches. This decoration shows a high relief that creates interesting interplay of lights and shadows. At the front we can see the symbol of God, the triangle that represents the balanced force (three equal sides) that reigns over humanity. Over the base, the great node that decorates the monstrances stem bears two embossed busts of little angels that protect the Sacred Heart with their wings. The monstrances top part where the lunette fits (the lunette, also known as lunula, is a gold or gold-plated silver clip used for holding the Host in an upright position when exposed in the monstrance) is the most remarkable and important part of the piece. The central body is a glass capsule framed by many gold-plated beams that symbolize the gleaming glory of the Blessed Sacrament (Jesus). The monstrance is crowned by a Latin cross that stands over the whole piece. The storing case is original from the period and is made of black-painted solid wood with gorgeous yellow-silk inner lining. The magnificence of this antique solid-silver French monstrance will stand out as part of a great collection or just as a decorative piece. Measurements: Bases Width: 7.5 in / 19 cm. Total Width: 13.4 in / 34 cm. Height: 26 in / 67 cm. Weight: 890 g.