Antique Solid Silver Embossed Chalice. France XIX Century

Gorgeous and impressive embossed solid-silver chalice accompanied by its paten and with the original storing case. The chalice is an amazing example of liturgical silverwork: it is entirely made of silver and completely decorated with hand-embossed figures and symbols. The foot is a circular ample piece, stable and heave, with its surface decorated with three medallions containing portraits if Virgin Mary, Saint Peter (with the keys) and Jesus Christ. Curiously enough, the portrait of Saint Joseph has been replaced by an image of the Apostle. At the border we can see embossed wheat stalks and reeds, symbols of Eucharist and Christianity respectively. Moreover, between the medallions we can see lovely images of bunches of grapes that symbolize the Eucharistic wine. The chalices stem shows different nodes, all of them covered by fine embossed motifs. The central node is shape as a vase and shows off images of wheat stalks and bunches of grapes, accompanied by classic elements. Over the node, the cup has a silver filigree base with images of the Theological Virtues: Faith, Hope and Charity. The images depict three women with the symbols that identify the virtues. They are inscribed in medallions too and are delicately made, with a high attention to detail. This filigree base holds the gold-plated cup, with no decoration at all and showing off a stylized shape. The paten that comes with the chalice, also made of gold-plated silver, bears as only decoration the engraved inscription IHS (an acronym of Jesus Christs Greek name) framed by a crown of thorns and over the Sacred Heart. Both the paten and the chalice bear hallmarks: we can see the mark of antique French silver (a profile of Minerva goddess) and the silversmiths mark with the name FAVIER. The complete set can be stored and carried in the original case. The black leatherette outside covering is somewhat worn by the trace of time, but the case still fulfills perfectly its duty. This wonderful antique French embossed solid-silver chalice is a real treasure that any lover of religious antiques will surely appreciate. Measurements: Chalice: Foots Width: 15 cm. Height: 30 cm. Cups Width: 9 cm. Weight: 450 g. Paten: Diameter: 15 cm. Weight: 115 g.