Bread Mark, Butter Mark – Ihs – Cross And Stars – Carved Wood – Folk Art

Mid-19th century France – Haute-Savoie – Alpine region. Rare circular bread brand in carved wood, with religious decoration centered on the monogram IHS surmounted by a cross. The central medallion develops a composition of great symbolic power: the letters IHS rise around a stylized altar, dominated by the cross of Christ. Radiant stars and a quatrefoil rosette complete the ensemble, while an S-shaped volute adds subtle movement to the composition. The peripheral ornamentation, composed of a frieze of deeply carved almond motifs, forms a protective crown around the sacred symbol. The reverse features a turned central tenon for gripping and imprinting in the dough. Traces of turning are still visible, combining work on the lathe and carving with a knife. This type of Savoyard bread brand is documented in the reference work "Marque ton pain, fleuri ton beurre" (Mark your bread, adorn your butter), dedicated to Alpine traditions related to the marking of bread and butter. The IHS iconography appears here as one of the most widespread motifs in the valleys of Haute-Savoie during the 19th century. Beyond its utilitarian function, the bread brand inscribed the sacred into everyday life. Marking the dough with the monogram of Christ was tantamount to blessing the home, placing the food under protection, and transforming a domestic gesture into a spiritual act. The patina is warm and deep, the reliefs softened by time without loss of legibility. The piece retains a beautiful presence, both understated and powerful. Condition: beautiful antique patina, wear consistent with use. Stable and harmonious piece. Dimensions: Diameter: 15 cm Shipping: ALL DELIVERIES ARE MADE BY DHL EXPRESS ONLY.