Gilded Bronze Processional Cross, Maison Viau In Limoges—late 19th Century

Processional cross in gilded bronze, chiseled and openwork, bearing on the reverse the stamp of the manufacturer Viau in Limoges, a firm specializing in religious ornaments and objects.

The vertical and horizontal bars feature rich neo-medieval-inspired decoration consisting of scrollwork, foliage motifs, and stylized ornaments, highlighted by a uniform border. The ends of the crossbar and the top of the cross are adorned with large openwork fleurons, giving the piece a particularly decorative silhouette.

In the center, the detachable figure of Christ, also in gilded bronze, stands out against the richly chiseled background of the cross. He is depicted with his head bowed, surrounded by a radiant halo, with meticulous modeling of the body and the perizonium. The variations in the tone of the gilding, due to patina and wear, accentuate the figure’s relief.

The upper part bears the titulus INRI, integrated into the decoration.

The reverse, more understated, retains the oval VIAU – LIMOGES stamp, identifying the manufacturer. The lower part extends into a threaded iron rod, intended for attaching the cross to its processional staff.

A fine-quality French piece, likely crafted in Limoges during the second half of the 19th century, in the Neo-Gothic and Neo-Romanesque styles then prevalent in goldsmithing and religious furnishings.

The gilding is generally well preserved, with the usual slight signs of wear and age.

Shipping: 18 euros within France, 35 euros within the EU, and 100 euros to the rest of the world.