Toulouse, 1798-1809, Very Large Altar Cross, Solid Silver, Louis XVI

Very large and sumptuous altar cross in solid silver of the first title dating from the period 1798-1809 (hallmark called "first rooster"). It is abundantly decorated with typical Louis XVI motifs. The cylindrical foot is adorned with laurel friezes and fluting. Four medallions in repoussé silver show instruments of the Passion of Christ or a weeping Mary Magdalene. On the plate of the foot is an apple in the round which represents the original peach tree with the serpent which surrounds the terrestrial globe on which the Cross is placed. The Corpus Christi attached to the cross is in cast silver and is entirely in the style of the early eighteenth century. The whole is in perfect condition and recalls the grandeur of religious goldsmithing of the eighteenth century. The altar cross weighs 1800 grams.