Italy Kingdom Of Sardinia Solid Silver Holy Water Font 'the Immaculate Conception' - Genoa

Italy – Holy Water Font – Kingdom of Sardinia: Genoa. This solid silver holy water font displays an elegant rocaille composition of stylized scrolls, shells, and foliage. The deliberate asymmetry of these ornaments animates the plaque with a supple and vibrant movement, emphasized by beautiful contrasts of form and texture between matte surfaces and finely chiseled reliefs. In the center, the Immaculate Conception is depicted with her hands clasped in prayer. Crushing the serpent, she rests on a globe surrounded by clouds, a traditional iconography symbolizing the Virgin's victory over original sin. Her face is surrounded by a halo chiseled with small star motifs. The background is matte, its contours a crosshatch pattern with damask reliefs. The basin, in the shape of a deeply chiseled shell, intended to hold holy water, is set within a very rich rocaille decoration. Fine piece of silverwork, Genoa hallmark, from the Kingdom of Sardinia period, late 18th/early 19th century. Height: 23.5 cm / 9.25 in. Width: 16.5 cm / 6.5 in. Weight: 150 g (sterling silver). Note: a mounting hole on a rocaille motif; the edges are very well preserved. Excellent condition.