Antique Solid Silver Gilt Chalice. France, Circa 1900

Lovely antique solid-silver chalice with its paten, a piece also made of silver. The set is dated in the late 19th or early 20th century (circa 1900). The chalice is a really beautiful piece, with a simple classic-inspired design that stands out for the mixture between lean silver and gold-plated silver. The hand-engraved images that decorate this piece depict images, symbols, decorative motifs and even verses from the Bible: it is a complex and detailed decoration that turns the chalice into an exclusive piece, with a strong decorative power and undeniable artisanal quality. The chalice and the paten bear hallmarks that testify for their origin and quality; we can see the mark for French-silver pieces and the silversmiths mark. The chalices base is circular and simple, decorated with a fine fringe with a delicate ivy plant and various Chrismons (Christs monograms). Over the fringe we can see four big oval-shaped medals (mandorla). The front medal contains an image of the Crucifixion, with Jesus Christ on the Cross flanked by Virgin Mary and Saint John. The other three show images of reeds, lances and trees wrapped in ribbons with verses from the Bible. The verses are in Latin, engraved in gorgeous Gothic lettering of a great medieval style. The main node that adorns the chalices stem is adorned with an engraved fringe, similar to that of the vase. The cup itself is embellished with the same motifs, the fringe and the medals with the Bibles verses. This sumptuous and careful decoration turns this chalice into a very special item that distinguishes itself for its rich hand-engraved ornamentation. Last but not least, the paten bears a delicate fringe composed of schematic floral motifs adorned by four medals with Greek crosses. The paten bears the same hallmarks as the chalice. For its ancient age and spectacular engraved decoration, this antique gold-plated solid-silver chalice and paten set will win the heart of every lover of religious art. Measurements: Chalice: Bases Width: 5.51 in / 14 cm. Height: 8.46 in / 21.5 cm. Cups Width: 4.13 in / 10.5 cm. Weight (with counterweight): 663 g. Paten: Diameter: 6.3 in / 16 cm. Weight: 172 g.