Antique Ciborium. Gilt Silver. France, S. XIX

Striking antique ciborium made of gold-plated silver, fully decorated with lovely embossed motifs and symbols and in great condition. This piece comes from France where it was originally made in the 19th century. The ciborium bears hallmarks in all its parts that testify for its origin and quality: we can see the French silver mark and the silversmiths signature with an image of a scale. The silver preserves the original gold-plated finish, that together with the stylized design and magnificent decoration of the piece turn it into a beautiful item and a really interesting article for any collector. The ciborium has an ample circular base decorated with hand-engraved floral motifs. Just by the stem we can see three scenes of the Sanhedrin trial of Jesus: the moment when Pontius Pilate washes his hands, the flogging and the humiliation endured by the Saviour when the soldiers dressed Him up with a purple robe, a reed and a crown of thorns and knelt to him saying: Hail, King of the Jews. Between the scenes there are classic Christian symbols: a fig with grape bunches (symbolizing the Eucharistic wine), wheat stalks (for the bread) and reeds, a symbol of the Christian faithful who drink from the waters of church. The top node of the stem is decorated with these symbols too. Over it, the fine cup bears three medallions with the engraved images of the Theological Virtues: Faith (a woman holding a chalice with the Sacred Host), Hope (a woman carrying an anchor) and Charity (a woman with three kids). The lid that covers the ciborium is also adorned with ancient symbols of the Jewish-Christian tradition: the Eye of Providence (symbol of God), the Tables of the Law and the Sacred Heart. This antique ciboriums great decoration and the beautiful gold-plated silver it is made of turn it into a remarkable piece, perfect to become part of a great collection of religious antiques. Measurements: Height: 11 in / 28 cm. Bases Width: 5.31 in / 13.5 cm. Top Width: 4.13 in / 10.5 cm.