Antique Silver Crucifixes, XIX Century.

Fine antique vessels for Holy Oils made of solid silver, with hallmarks and hand-engraved inscriptions. The vessels were made in France in the 19th century; this is certified by the hallmarks they bear. We can see the hallmark for French solid silver (a profile of Minerva goddess) and the silversmiths mark, containing the letters J and C. The vessels are in really good condition, making up quite a delicate and attractive piece. They preserve the original lids, each one crowned by a fine cross on top. The two vessels are connected by slim curved silver bars with two branches at their ends. At the vessels front side we can see two pairs of initials engraved by hand: O.S. and S.C. These letters correspond to the Holy Oil each vessel contains: O.S. for the Sacred Oleum (Oleum Sanctorum) and S.C. for the Sacred Chrism (Sacrum Chrisma). Otherwise these antique solid-silver vessels boast a simple and elegant design, the only decorative touch being the fringes engraved at the lids borders. These delicate antique vessels for the Holy Oils are worthy of inclusion in a museum of sacred art or a great collection of religious antiques. Measurements: Width: 3.1 in / 8 cm. Height: 2.5 in / 6.5 cm.Vessels for the Holy Oils History These vessels are designed to contain the Holy Oils, consecrated oils used in some Catholic ceremonies. The earliest ones known are probably the vessels stored in the Cathedral of Monza, Italy. These products are used by the Roman Catholic and Orthodox Catholic churches in different rituals. One of the vessels contains the Sacred Chrism and the other can contain the Oil of the Cathecumens (used in the sacrament of Baptism) or, more commonly, the Oil of the Infirm (for the Sacrament of Anointing the Sick, formerly known as Extreme Unction). The Sacred Chrism is a mixture of olive oil and balm; the oil symbolizes strength, and the soft aroma of the balm is a reminder of Christian life.