Antique Neogothic Monstrance. Silver, Gold, Diamonds, Rubies, Pearls and Lapis Lazuli. 1855

Wonderful antique neo-gothic monstrance in perfect condition, made in France by the famous goldsmith Placide Poussielgue-Rusand circa 1855, the Pope's Pio IX gold and silversmith. For its ancient age, richness and spectacular design, we can say that this monstrance is a real work of religious art which deserves to become part of a cathedrals treasure. It is fully made of thick solid silver, being a sturdy and heavy item that seems to consist of only one piece. The monstrances decoration combines precious stones, diamonds up to 5 mm diameter, natural pearls and carved crystals; these materials make up a majestic and impressive piece. The top part of the monstrance (the sunburst) preserves the original luna or lunette, the glass capsule designed to protect and show the Blessed Sacrament. This piece is made of 18-carat solid gold; it bears no hallmarks but it has been submitted to the acid test in order to guarantee the quality of the metal. Its rear lid bears an engraved inscription in Latin which means: What I render to the Lord for all He has given to me. Surrounding this piece, on the front, we can see a circle composed of real diamonds and a beautiful frame made up of enamel plates with a fine color display: blue, white, red and yellow. Outside, a gorgeous frame of silver flowers surrounds the whole piece; it is adorned with carved crystals (decorating the flowers petals), lapis lazuli and diamonds. On top of the monstrance we can see a stylized bejeweled Latin cross adorned with natural pearls. Some parts of this item are embellished with big real pearls with an imposing beauty, as well as rubies. The monstrances base stands on four small flower-shaped legs adorned with lapis lazuli stones; it is also decorated with a lovely embossed fringe composed of vines and grape bunches. At the edge we can see the French-silver hallmark and the mark of Placide Poussielgue-Rusand, the goldsmith that made the monstrance. These marks guarantee the origin and quality of this amazing silver piece. As beautiful as special, this superb neo-gothic solid-silver monstrance adorned with gold and precious stones is bound to shine in any collection of sacred-art pieces. Measurements: Bases Width: 9 in / 23 cm. Height: 26.57 in / 67.5 cm. Cups Width: 10.62 in / 27 cm. Weight: 2.310 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, which contains what is considered to be the true crown of thorns worn by Jesus, 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).