Antique Italian Solid Silver Ciborium. Italy Circa 1820-1850

Beautiful antique Italian silver ciborium, made in Italy during the first half of the 19th century, approximately between 1820 and 1850, it is an especially elegant and very visually pleasing piece. It has very beautiful proportions and a sober yet rich presence. The contrast between the white silver exterior and the gilded interior of the cup also gives it a particularly warm and solemn appearance, very beautiful both in the hand and on the altar.

The ciborium is entirely made in silver and preserves a very balanced aesthetic. The base presents relatively sober decoration, with a beautiful moulded border that brings elegance without overloading the piece. In contrast, the knop, the sub-cup and the lid show much more elaborate and decorative ornamental work, with vegetal motifs and embossed elements of great visual effect. The sub-cup stands out especially for its open and lively work, creating very attractive plays of light and bringing depth to the whole. The central knop is also very well worked, with oval forms and gadrooned decoration that greatly enrich the silhouette of the ciborium.

The lid maintains the same decorative harmony and is topped by a beautiful gadrooned finial crowned by a very elegant and well proportioned cross. The whole transmits the feeling of fine antique Italian religious silverwork, with rich but well restrained decoration, without excesses. It is precisely that balance which makes the piece so visually attractive.

The interior of the cup preserves very well conserved gilding, with excellent appearance. The general condition of the ciborium is very good. It is ready to continue being used in the Eucharist. It bears visible Italian hallmarks on the base, on the cup and on the lid, confirming the authenticity of the piece and its manufacture in silver.

This is a ciborium that conveys the elegance and nobility proper to fine antique Italian liturgical silverwork, with rich but balanced decoration that gives it a great deal of personality without becoming overloaded. The contrast between the white silver and the gilded interior greatly enhances its presence and makes it an especially beautiful piece both in the hand and on the altar. Furthermore, the state of preservation is truly attractive, something increasingly uncommon in this type of 19th century liturgical object.

Because of its quality, its magnificent presentation and the beauty of its ornamental work, it would be a perfect piece to continue being used in a parish or in a private chapel, where it would immediately stand out for its elegance and solemnity. It is also a very interesting ciborium for collection, as it combines authenticity, quality goldsmith work and a refined appearance. Likewise, it may be an especially beautiful gift for a priest or for someone connected with religious life who appreciates authentic antique liturgical pieces made in silver.

Measurements: total height 23.5 cm (9.25 in), diameter of the cup 9.2 cm (3.62 in), diameter of the base 10 cm (3.94 in). Weight: 407 g. (14.36 oz.)