Vintage Chalice in Solid Silver 900. Circa 1960-70.

Gorgeous and rare vintage 900-solid-silveer chalice, in good condition and with a wooden protecting case. The chalice is dated between 1960 and 1970 and remains in good condition, except for some slight scratches inside the cup. It bears no hallmarks or other marks, except for the silver proportion (0.900) engraved at the pieces foot. The case and the paten that come with the chalice are not the original ones. The case is slightly bigger than the chalice, but even so it is perfect to keep it safe and sound. Probably the most appealing feature of this singular piece is the engraved decoration that covers almost it whole surface. At the chalices foot we can see an embossed motive depicting a pelican protecting its chicks. According to Christian symbolism, the pelican hurts its chest with its beak in order to let it bleed and feed its offspring. It is a symbol of generosity and altruism. The rest of the silver surface is covered of embossed figs with bunches of grapes and big-sized wheat stalks that emerge from the stem, symbolizing the Eucharistic wine and bread. The chalices stem is a really peculiar part: it is decorated with some three female figures dressed in Roman-style garments who hold the cup with their hands. The cups decoration is similar to the stems one; its Greco-Roman style makes up an almost lay piece (except for the symbols at the foot). It is composed of vines, leaves and bunches of grapes intertwined with naked male figures that look like fauns. This surprising decoration can be found in some liturgical pieces from the 1960s and 70s, and this has made it possible to date the chalice. The paten that comes with it is a silver disc with three embedded colored-glass stones. The storing case is made of solid wood and bears suitcase fasteners, remaining in good condition too. This curious vintage solid-silver chalice with embossed decoration will delight every lover of sacred art, but also many collectors of rare and original pieces. Measurements: Chalice: Foots Width: 5.6 in / 14 cm. Cups Width: 3.8 in / 9.5 cm. Height: 9.2 in / 23 cm. Paten´s Diameter: 6 in / 15 cm. Total Weight: 735 g.