Solid Silver Altar Cross, Christ In Ivory – Paris – Circa 1820

Solid silver altar cross, Christ in ivory – Paris, circa 1820

A significant solid silver altar cross resting on an elegant, architecturally designed stepped base, richly adorned with plant motifs and an Agnus Dei on the front, the traditional symbol of Christ the Redeemer.

Description

The finely chased decoration, consisting of rosettes, stylized leaves, and deep moldings, is characteristic of Parisian silversmithing from the Restoration period.

The cross bears the hallmarks of the first Vieillard de Paris master (1819–1838) as well as the master’s mark of Quentin Baschelet, a Parisian silversmith specializing in liturgical objects who was active beginning in 1816.
The “INRI” inscription and the crucified Christ are carved from ivory.
The figure of Christ, beautifully crafted with expressive modeling, appears to be a later addition, likely from the late 19th century.

The shaft and arms of the cross feature an elegant, slightly scalloped profile, enlivened by raised fillets and bulges at the ends. The piece as a whole has a remarkable presence and is a fine example of French religious goldsmithing from the first half of the 19th century.

Dimensions: Height: 54 cm x Width: 26 cm
Weight: 1,005 g

Condition:

In good overall condition. The silver has an antique patina. The ivory Christ shows some restoration and signs of wear consistent with its age.
An expert appraisal report accompanies the object.

A museum-quality piece combining the elegance of early 19th-century Parisian silversmithing with a remarkable devotional ivory figure of Christ.

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