Silver Cross - Freemasonry Jewelry Rose-cross Knight Empire Period

Antique Masonic Cross in Silver and Enamel - Mystical Pelican and Symbols of the Passion - 19thC.

Rare and spectacular antique Masonic cross, probably from the end of beginning of the 19th century, in silver. 

Description

This cross is distinguished by a remarkable symbolic richness.
It is double-sided:
Side 1: representation of the mystical pelican feeding its young, a strong Christian symbol and also used in Masonic symbolism as a representation of sacrifice and charity.
Side 2: reverse Masonic emblem with the cross, the instruments of the Passion (nails, crown, ladder), on a pearly mauve enamel background with the inscription INRI.
The whole is arranged on a radiance of sparkling rhinestones of old cut set closed, in a silver setting with a radiant sun motif. The hand-painted enamel decoration is very fine, executed on a pearly background with golden highlights.

For silver (positive acid test visible on the last photo)
Dimensions: 7.5 x 6 cm excluding ring

Condition:
Very good general condition. Some small traces of time on the rhinestones but overall bright and very decorative.

Collector's item

This cross is a fine example of symbolic and Masonic iconography, used in certain rites or higher grades, notably those of the chivalric chapters (Rose-Croix, etc.). Its manufacturing quality, its decorative richness and its reversible character make it an unusual collector's item.