Antique Spanish Silver Nave. Valladolid, Spain. 18th C. Ca 1775

Antique Silver Naveta from Valladolid, Spain, 18th Century, circa 1775

This exquisite silver naveta is a rare and ancient jewel crafted in the city of Valladolid, Spain, around the year 1775. It is an exceptional piece reflecting the craftsmanship of the time and retains its charm and utility despite the passage of time.

The naveta is entirely made of silver, giving it an unmatched shine and elegance. The base and the edge feature hallmarks authenticating its origin in Valladolid, a detail that enhances its value and appeal to collectors. The rich vegetal decoration adorning the entire piece testifies to the artisanal skill and aesthetic taste of the 18th century, with intricate motifs capturing the essence of the decorative art of the era.

Despite its age, the naveta is in good condition. It does have some missing parts and a restoration on the stem, but these minor imperfections do not detract from its overall beauty. Instead, they add character and a unique history. These restorations have been carefully carried out to maintain the piece's integrity and historical value.

This naveta is perfect for integration into an antique collection due to its rarity and historical significance. It is also ideal for a priest seeking an antique silver naveta for use in religious ceremonies, adding a touch of history and solemnity to the liturgy.

The base of the naveta rises gracefully, displaying an elaborately decorated stem and base supporting the main body of the piece. The lid, decorated with an elegant floral motif, opens to reveal a spacious interior suitable for holding incense. Every detail, from the finely crafted edges to the vegetal patterns, has been carefully designed to create a harmonious and beautiful piece.

This silver naveta is a unique opportunity to own a sacred art object with a rich history and exquisite design. Its state of preservation, combined with its manufacturing quality, makes it a valuable investment and a standout addition to any antique collection.

Dimensions: 17 cm (6.69 in) in height, 17 cm (6.69 in) in length, 9.3 cm (3.66 in) in width. Weight: 322 grams.

History of the Valladolid Silver Naveta

The Valladolid silver naveta, dating from around 1775, is a faithful representation of the rich silversmithing tradition that characterized this Spanish city during the 18th century. Valladolid, known for its architectural splendor and historical relevance, also stood out for the quality of its silver products, thanks to the skill and creativity of its artisans.

In the 18th century, the production of liturgical silver objects was a common practice, and navetas were essential pieces used in religious ceremonies to hold incense. Valladolid's silversmiths worked under strict regulations ensuring the purity of the silver and the excellence in the crafting of each piece. The hallmarks found on this naveta are evidence of these standards of quality and authenticity.

The design of this naveta reflects the influence of the Rococo style that prevailed in Europe during the second half of the 18th century. The elaborate vegetal and floral motifs are characteristic of this style, providing a sense of movement and delicacy that enhances the piece's beauty. Restoration and maintenance over the years have allowed this naveta to retain its original splendor, making it a historically and aesthetically valuable object.

Today, silver navetas like this one are appreciated not only for their liturgical functionality but also as testimonies of the craftsmanship and religious art of the time. This naveta is a perfect example of how liturgical objects can be both utilitarian and artistic, and its state of preservation makes it especially desirable for collectors and enthusiasts of religious antiques.