Antique Baroque Gilt Silver Chalice, Paten And Case. Paris, France, 1819-1838

Magnificent antique liturgical chalice in gilt silver, accompanied by its paten and original period case, made in Paris between 1819 and 1838 according to the visible hallmarks on the pieces. It is a French religious ensemble of great quality, complete and homogeneous, preserved with extraordinary presence and decorative richness very uncommon even among 19th century liturgical pieces.

The chalice presents an elegant Baroque structure with broad circular base, turned stem with central knop and bell-shaped cup. The entire surface is worked with very fine and well-defined reliefs that stand out especially because of the contrast between the polished and decorated areas, creating warm reflections and great visual depth. The gilt silver retains a very attractive shine, with a soft and natural patina characteristic of well-preserved antique pieces.

The base displays iconographic decoration of great richness, formed by oval relief medallions representing the theological virtues: Faith, Hope and Charity. These medallions alternate with wheat sheaves, grape clusters and vegetal motifs linked to Eucharistic symbolism. Also noteworthy is the central representation of the cross over a scene reminiscent of the walls of Jerusalem, executed with especially delicate engraving quality. The gadrooned border of the base gives visual strength and a very elegant presence to the ensemble.

The central knop continues the decoration with vegetal panels in high relief where reeds, wheat sheaves and grape clusters finely chased appear. This part concentrates much of the sculptural attraction of the piece, with very balanced work between volume, texture and smooth gilt areas that reflect the light with great intensity.

The cup preserves decoration on its lower section through religious medallions alternating with vegetal elements. Among them appear Christ as King of the Jews with crown of thorns and reed, the Virgin Mary with the Child and Saint Peter identifiable by the keys and the rooster. The scenes display very expressive modelling and surprisingly well-defined detail for their size. The interior of the cup is completely gilt.

The original paten accompanies the chalice and maintains total coherence with the ensemble. In the centre appears the engraved IHS monogram surrounded by an interlaced border of classical inspiration. It also preserves its original gilding and presents a clean and elegant surface, with slight normal signs of use.

The ensemble also preserves its original carrying case. The exterior shows wear and losses typical of the passage of time, something common in this type of piece, but it maintains its structure and authenticity. The preservation of the chalice and paten is very good, without major deformations or relevant visible losses.

Due to its quality of execution, its iconography and the beauty of its gilding, this antique French chalice is a liturgical piece of great visual presence and strong historical appeal. A complete and difficult-to-find ensemble, ideal both for collecting and for ceremonial use or priestly ordination gift.

Measurements: Height of the chalice: 29.2 cm (11.49 in); cup diameter: 8.4 cm (3.30 in); base diameter: 15 cm (5.90 in); paten diameter: 15 cm (5.90 in). Weight of the chalice: 531 g. Weight of the paten: 118 g. Total weight: 649 g. (22.89 oz.)