"Antique French Religious Ex-voto Large Flamboyant Sacred Heart Monogram Ihs XIX Century"
Exceptional and very large 19th century French religious Ex-Voto, measuring almost 28 cm in height. It is extremely rare to find such a complete piece in such good condition. This unique heart is a true collector's item. The central heart, made of ruby red glass, is engraved with the monogram IHS surrounded by a crown of thorns. The monogram IHS is a Christian abbreviation of the name Jesus, often interpreted as Iesus Hominum Salvator (Jesus, Savior of Men). The crown of thorns symbolizes the suffering of Christ. This central part is set in a brass frame, adorned with 38 transparent rhinestones also forming a heart. Further down, 39 additional ruby red stones accentuate the contrast and enrich the composition. At the top, the flames are decorated with 47 ruby red stones (two small stones are missing). Around the central piece, sunbeams are embellished with 143 transparent rhinestones. On the back, a brass plate allows the Ex-Voto to be opened in order to insert a souvenir or relic. This plate is engraved with the numbers 22 and 25. An original brass ring is present on the top, probably intended to suspend the heart with a colored ribbon.
Approximate dimensions of the Flaming Sacred Heart:
Height: 27.5 cm
Width: 21.5 cm
Thickness: 3 cm
Condition: Perfect condition, except for two tiny stones missing from the top.
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