Napoleon III Communion Frame

An antique religious memento, most likely dating from the late 19th or early 20th century. It consists of a domed oval frame made of blackened wood with a gold border on the inside. This type of frame was common for religious or family keepsakes. Inside, beneath a domed pane of glass, is a decorative arrangement of dried flowers or paper/feather flowers, carefully arranged in a wreath around an inscription. These arrangements were often handmade for important events such as First Communion, baptism, or weddings. In the center is a small religious medal surrounded by blue beads. The medal likely depicts a Catholic scene, possibly a church, basilica, or Eucharistic symbol. The inscription reads: “First Communion Souvenir – Ange – ...” This text indicates that the object was a gift or keepsake after a First Communion, likely for someone named Ange and with the surname Cremaux/Cremaux. In Catholic tradition, such souvenirs were often given by family or the church and kept for a lifetime. This type of object served as a personal commemoration, often displayed in the living room or bedroom, testified to the importance of First Communion in religious life, and blended folk art, family piety, and meticulous craftsmanship. The domed frame protects the fragile elements inside and creates a sense of depth characteristic of Napoleon III frames (circa 1850–1900), reinforcing the idea that the object is antique. 37 cm x 31 cm