Striking Gilt-Silver Chalice and Paten Set. France, Circa 1880

Striking Gilt-Silver Chalice and Paten Set. France, Circa 1880

Striking gilt-silver chalice and paten set made in France circa 1880 and in amazing condition. The chalice is an outstanding piece of sacred silversmith and has the mark of Favier Freres at the foot and the cup: the initials FF with a radiant heart between them. It is profusely engraved by hand with symbols, allegories and beautiful scenes which turn it into a spectacular piece. At the foot we can see the Birth, the Baptism and the Crucifixion of Christ, separated by vines with bunches of rapes. The edge is adorned with the Arma Christi, the tools used to torment Jesus. The node which decorates the stem shows symmetrical ornamental motifs, while the subcup has engraved medallions with the Theological Virtues and their attributes. The silver and the gilt finish are amazingly preserved, considering the piece’s ancient age. The paten which comes with the chalice is also made of silver and has its own hallmarks. It is decorated with the monogram of Jesus Christ, IHS, engraved by hand.

This striking gilt-silver chalice and paten set is bound to preside an altar during the celebration of Mass.

Dimensions: Chalice: Foot’s Width: 6.29 in / 16 cm. Cup’s Width: 3.74 in / 9.5 cm. Height: 11.41 in / 29 cm. Paten: Diameter: 62.2 / 15.8 cm.

Favier Silversmiths - History

The hallmark with the word FAVIER or with two Fs and a radiant heart corresponds to the company founded in 1824 by two brothers, François and Andre-Michel Favier. The workshop was located in Lyon. Both were great silversmiths; their workshop produced sacred-art articles such as chalices, patens, cruets and ciboria. Their works are considered state-of-the-art items and are usually found in the best collections and in the treasures of important churches and cathedrals. The pieces with the Favier mark are usually characterized by a profoundly religious feel; in the beginning they were clearly inspired by mediaeval images. With the trace of time the company followed more advanced artistic movements such as symbolism or modernism. The family business was active until 1976.