Striking Antique Gilt-Silver Monstrance with Enamels. France, Circa 1890

Striking gilt-silver monstrance with enamels, complete and made in France circa 1890. This impressive piece of religious silverwork has survived to our days in excellent condition. The silver and the enamels are perfectly preserved, just like the rhinestones and the imitation turquoises which clot the sunburst (the top part of the monstrance). This display of gemstones fills the piece with light and richness, increasing the magnificence of an already great design. All the parts of the monstrance bear the French silver hallmark and the mark of Lucie Goldstein, a goldsmith active until 1896. The lobed base sits on six small legs, shaped like dogs or wolves. Each legs corresponds to a section of the base three of them are crowned by small silver figures depicting the Theological Virtues, and the other three are bear medallions with enamels of Jesus Christ, Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph. Each decorative element is separated from the rest by embossed vines and bunches of grapes, schematic and symmetrical. The stem has a gothic canopy at the foot and a central node. The node is embellished with six enamels, three of them with images of Saint Peter, Mary and Jesus Christ and the other three with initials: FD, SP and CT (Faith, Hope and Charity) At the top of the monstrance, the sunburst is a truly impressive part. It preserves all its original silver sunrays and the central lunette, made of gold and glass. Framing the lunette there are twelve small medallions with enameled images of the Apostles, in full color and made with an amazing attention to detail. Each apostle holds his corresponding attribute. Crowning the monstrance there is an amazing baroque cross with an enamel depicting the Lamb of God in full color. As gorgeous as antique, this spectacular gilt-silver monstrance with enamels is a real work of art, worthy to belong to a museum of religious silverware or to the best collection. Dimensions: Foots Width: 9.8 in / 25 cm. Top Width: 15 in / 38 cm. Height: 28.3 in / 72 cm. Weight: 2.700 g.