Antique Chalice and Paten in Solid Silver Gilt. Missions. France, Circa 1860

Delicate antique gold-plated solid-silver chalice, with its paten and in very good condition. Both pieces are dated circa 1860 and come from France. They bear the hallmark of the famous goldsmith Placide Poussielgue-Rusand, a prestigious artist that in the 19th century was given the title Goldsmith of the Holy Father. The set that we can see in the images is quite simple but exudes a timeless elegance created by the balanced proportions and the fine hand-engraved decoration. It comes in its original case, somewhat worn but still fulfilling perfectly its duty. At the top of the case we can see a sticker with the word Missions, probably meaning that this set was used in them. The chalice shows a very attractive neo-gothic style of clear medieval influence and adorned with simple decorative details. The circular conical-shaped base is embellished with hand-engraved crosses and reeds, symbols of the Christianity. It also bears a delicate schematic fringe and floral motifs. The central node bears a similar decoration of crosses and four-pointed stars. The bell-shaped cup bears no decoration at all; near the edge we can see the goldsmiths mark (with the initials PPR, an anchor, a cross and a heart) and the one for French silver (the profile of Minerva goddess). The paten is also a very simple piece; its only decoration is the hand-engraved IHS acronym framed by a crown of flowers. The delicacy and simplicity of this antique gold-plated solid-silver chalice and paten turn this set into a magnificent article, full of charm and personality. Measurements: Chalice: Bases Width: 4.72 in / 14 cm. Cups Width: 3.54 in / 9.5 cm. Height: 9 in / 23 cm. Weight: 277 g. Paten: Diameter: 5.11 in / 13 cm. Weight: 65 g.Placide Poussielgue-Rusand - History Placide Poussielgue-Rusand (1824-1889) was a famous goldsmith who ruled a business in Paris in the 19th century. He worked with gold and silver and specialized in liturgical pieces. Among his most famous pieces of work we can quote the High Altar of the Holy Trinity Church and the Crown of Light of the Notre Dame Cathedral, both in Paris. We can also find examples of his art in the Notre Dame Cathedral of Amiens: the bronze altar of the Sacred Heart Chapel is especially beautiful, and so is the reliquary for the Head of St. John the Baptist. During his life he was given the Title of Goldsmith of the Holy Father (the Pope). His business was continued by his descendants until 1963.