Antique Solid-Silver Chalice with Enamels. France, 19th Century

Antique solid-silver chalice with enamels, made in France in the 19th century and with fine decoration. Originally, the silver bore a gilt-finish which is currently almost gone. Even though, the chalice still boasts a great beauty created by its stylized medieval-inspired design and lovely details. The flower-shaped foot has tree enamel medallions painted by hand, depicting images of the members of the Sacred Family. The enamels are in perfect condition and show a great array of colors, as well as a remarkable attention to detail. Between the enamels we can see three embossed symbols: a front cross and two images of the Arma Christi, the instruments used in the Flagellation of Christ. The rest of the chalices surface is adorned with embossed symmetrical motifs that reach the stem. This piece is hexagonal in shape and has a main node with embedded red stones, and a secondary node without stones. The subcup shows a great openwork which reproduces the same decoration as seen at the foot. At the cups edge we can see the French silver hallmark and the silversmiths mark, with the initials LG. The foot has the same hallmarks, as well as an engraved inscription inside: J-B. MALLET. The chalice comes with a solid-silver paten with hallmarks, adorned with a beautiful hand-engraved cross framed by floral details. This antique solid-silver chalice with enamels is the perfect item to celebrate Eucharist, and to become part of a great collection of religious art. Dimensions: Chalice: Foots Width: 6.1 in / 15.5 cm. Cups Width: 3.74 in / 9.5cm. Weight: 530 g. Paten: Diameter: 5.71 in / 14.5 cm. Weight: 100 g. Total Weight: 630 g.