Vatican – Secret Camerier’s Necklace Of His Holiness Pope Pius X (1903-1914) - Silver And Verme

VATICAN – Secret Camerier’s Necklace of His Holiness Pope Pius X (1903-1914) - Silver and vermeil – House M. Maceroni, Rome

Rare and important Camerier’s Charge Necklace Pontifical Secret, executed in partially vermeil silver, composed of a chain with alternating double links punctuated by enamelled or niello circular medallions, numbered 'CS' (Camérier Secret).

Description

The whole converges towards an important central pendant featuring the pontifical insignia: papal tiara surmounted by the cross and crossed keys of Saint Peter linked by a cord with tassels, treated in high relief. The model is clear, with a precise and official execution, in accordance with the insignia of the Pontifical Household under the pontificate of Pius X.

The medallions, mounted in circular claw frames, present the interwoven numeral 'CS'. on a dark background, highlighted by a careful contrast between silver and gilding.
The alternation of golden and silver links reinforces the hierarchical reading of the whole and gives it a marked ceremonial presence.
Punches: three small punches visible on an element of the pendant

Gross weight: 486 grams.

Preserved in its original case in black morocco with golden decoration on the pontifical arms of Pius X.

Interior in crimson velvet. Ancient label on the reverse: M. MACERONI - Incisore – Gioielliere- Piazza della Torretta, 21- ROMA

The House of Maceroni, active in Rome, was supplier of religious objects and official insignia intended for the Curia and the Pontifical Household.

A similar copy in gilt bronze is reproduced in: Bernard Berthod and Élisabeth Hardouin-Fugier, Dictionnaire des Arts Liturgiques, XIXe – XXe siècles, Éditions de l'Amateur, 1996, p. 151.

Historical context

The Secret Chamberlain (Cameriere Aker di Spada e Cappa) belonged to the Pontifical Household and attended the pope in official ceremonies. This necklace was a distinctive badge of dignity, worn during protocol functions at the Vatican.
Under the pontificate of Pius X (1903-1914), the codification of insignia and charges of the Pontifical Court remained very structured, this type of necklace being strictly for official use. Condition Good general state of preservation. Normal and homogeneous wear consistent with ceremonial use. Original case preserved with slight marks of seniority.

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