Antique Silver Plated Metal Cruets With Enamels, France, Circa 1900

Elegant antique set of liturgical cruets in silver-plated metal, possibly made in France around circa 1900, composed of two cruets and an oval tray decorated with gilded metal and enamels. The set is in good general condition and is ready for use in the Eucharist.

The tray has a very attractive oval shape, with pointed ends and a beaded border. Its surface combines large areas of polished silver-plated metal with rich applied gilded decoration, formed by scrolls, vegetal motifs and small floral elements. This combination of silver and gilding creates a very luminous contrast, enhanced by the four intensely blue enamelled medallions representing the evangelists with their traditional symbols: Saint John with the eagle, Saint Mark with the lion, Saint Luke with the ox and Saint Matthew with the angel. The enamels add a very elegant note of colour and reinforce the liturgical character of the set.

The two cruets have a rounded body, circular base and high handles with a curved profile, with vegetal decoration and volute finials. Each vessel preserves its hinged lid. One of the lids is decorated with vines and bunches of grapes, identifying the cruet intended for wine. The other shows shell motifs, suitable for the water cruet. This detail is especially attractive because it allows the function of each piece to be clearly distinguished without the need for an inscription.

The silver-plated surfaces preserve a very attractive shine, with small normal signs of use and light marks consistent with an antique liturgical piece. The gilded applications on the tray still have a rich and luminous presence, while the blue enamels with the four evangelists provide colour, distinction and a clear iconographic strength. It is an especially attractive set because it combines beauty, symbolism and liturgical functionality. The cruets, accompanied by a tray of great presence, decorated with gilding and enamels, turn the piece into a true altar set. The presence of the four evangelists adds a very important devotional value.

An ideal piece for a church, chapel, private oratory or religious community wishing to recover for the Church an antique liturgical set with real beauty. Also a very attractive option for collectors of sacred art, as it is a complete, decorative, well-preserved set with visible and elegant Christian iconography. Its combination of silver-plated shine, gilding and blue enamels gives it an exceptional presence on the altar, making these cruets a much more special piece than a simple object of worship.

Measurements: Tray: Length 27 cm (10.63 in). Width 16.5 cm (6.5 in). Cruets: Height 12.5 cm (4.92 in). Base diameter 4 cm (1.56 in).