Rare Neo-baroque "sun" Monstrance In Solid Silver By Delheid – Certified Historical Provenance

Rare Neo-Baroque Sun-Shaped Monstrance in Solid Silver and Gilded Bronze by Delheid – Certified Historical Provenance (Belgium, Mid-19th Century)

A magnificent and imposing sun-shaped monstrance crafted from repoussé solid silver and gilded bronze, featuring chiseled and openwork details, in keeping with the great stylistic tradition of the Meuse Baroque.

Description of the Work and Liturgical Iconography

The radiant vermeil halo features a circular crescent at its center, encircled by a collar of diamond-like rhinestones to magnify the consecrated Host. Four large adoring angels and cherubs, sculpted in the round, are depicted in dynamic poses of great expressive finesse. At the base of the composition, the presence of the mystical pelican feeding its young offers powerful Eucharistic symbolism linked to the sacrifice of Christ.

The ensemble is crowned by a spectacular closed royal crown, richly openwork and surmounted by a globe bearing a cross.
Sheaves of metal wheat spread across the sides of the halo.

The piece rests on a fluted shaft with a pear-shaped knot and a dynamic circular base, adorned with waves, rocaille cartouches, and acanthus leaves.

Hallmark Analysis and Certifications (Images provided)

The object boasts impeccable traceability and authenticity thanks to two officially identified hallmarks

Provenance and Historical Significance

The outer rim of the monstrance’s base bears a beautifully crafted chiseled cursive inscription:
“ Donated by Mrs. G., widow of Gotte, to the Chapel of Hallembaye on June 15, 1873”

This ex-voto inscription perfectly documents the object’s history. It was a bequest made at the very beginning of the 20th century (circa 1909) by Madame Gotte, a prominent landowner in the Haccourt-Oupeye region (Lower Meuse, Liège), for the benefit of the Saint-Nicolas Chapel in Hallembaye (a remarkable 16th-century building). The object thus remained in the chapel’s treasury before entering the art market.

Region / School: Belgium (Brussels / Liège)
Period: Mid-19th century (Reign of Leopold I, circa 1831–1868)
Metal: Solid silver (2nd fineness, 800/1000) with elements in vermeil and gilded bronze
Master Silversmith: Michel-Pierre DELHEID (Delheid Frères, Brussels)
Condition: Excellent condition, superb antique patina, chiseling of remarkable freshness
Gross weight: 1.778 kg

An exceptional piece for collectors of Christian art or 19th-century Belgian silverwork, combining the technical virtuosity of the Delheid firm with a perfectly clear local history.

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