Antique Italian Silver Ciborium in Good Condition, circa 1900, Italy

Antique Italian Silver Ciborium. Good Condition. Italy, circa 1900.

This exquisite ciborium, crafted in Italy around 1900, is an exceptional piece of religious silverware, made of gilded and white silver. The ciborium is in very good condition, enhancing its appeal and historical value.

The base of the ciborium is richly decorated with intricate vegetal motifs representing leaves and flowers, creating a harmonious and detailed design that captures the eye with its delicacy and precision. This vegetal ornamentation not only beautifies the piece but also reflects the craftsmanship of the era.

The node of the ciborium, located in the center of the stem, is adorned with cherub heads and mascarons. The cherub heads, with their angelic faces and serene expressions, bring a sense of divinity and purity, while the mascarons add a touch of mystery and sophistication with their detailed and stylized expressions.

The lid of the ciborium continues the decorative theme, featuring more cherub heads and a profusion of vegetal elements similar to those on the base. These additional details on the lid not only complement the overall design of the ciborium but also highlight the artistic coherence and balance of the piece.

Atop the lid sits a cross, symbolizing its liturgical use and reinforcing its religious purpose. The cross is finely crafted, adding a final touch of reverence and solemnity.

The rim of the cup is marked with the "800" stamp, indicating the purity of the silver used in its manufacture, which is a testament to its authenticity and quality. This stamp guarantees that the piece is made of high-purity silver, commonly used in luxury items and historically significant pieces.

This antique ciborium is not only a magnificent work of art but also a valuable investment. Perfect for collectors of religious art, antiques, and for those looking to add a piece of great beauty and significance to their collection or home decor.

This ciborium, with its rich vegetal decoration and presence of cherub heads and mascarons, reflects the style and devotion of the era, making it a historically and artistically valuable piece.

Don't miss the opportunity to own this historical gem! This ciborium will undoubtedly be a standout element in any setting, whether as a unique decorative piece or as part of a sacred art collection.

Dimensions: 28 cm height, 12.5 cm diameter at the top, 11.2 cm diameter at the base. Weight: 670 grams.

History of the Ciborium

The ciborium, also known as a chalice or pyx, is a sacred vessel used in the liturgical ceremonies of the Catholic Church to hold the Eucharist. The tradition of using precious metal ciboriums, such as gold and silver, dates back to the early centuries of Christianity, when it was sought to reflect the purity and sanctity of the sacrament through noble materials.

During the 19th and early 20th centuries, Italy was a major center for the production of high-quality religious items. Italian artisans were renowned for their skill in working with precious metals, combining traditional techniques with artistic influences from the Renaissance and Baroque. This resulted in pieces that were not only functional but also true works of art.

The "800" mark on the silver indicates a purity of 80%, which was common in Italian silversmithing of the period. This standard ensured durability and characteristic shine, suitable for liturgical objects.