Exquisite Antique French Gilded Santos Crown

A fine and original atelier made antique (circa 1870), it exhibits a rich and resplendent facade with multi layered metal work. It originates from the south of France, near Marseille.

It was made to fit a medium size Santos (Madonna) statue. Heavily set with brilliant faceted blue glass stones, it speaks of the virtues of the Virgin Mary (the color blue represents Mary's grace, peace, purity).

The cast brass/bronze frame slants forward to enhance the glory of the crown when viewed from below. Scrolls, half globes, fleur de lis and three diamond shapes create a very textural field. Each blue and clear stone, set into individual mounts with prongs, shimmers and reflects in the light. Three
Maltese crosses are formed by textured brass "roping". The crosses are set with four clear (faceted) glass stones and one (faceted) blue stone.

The bottom band is set with 23 clear glass stones. There is a maker's mark and a model number on the back band (to the left of the mounting holes). It is in exceptional condition for the age with a brilliant patina and all stones present. It measures 2 1/8" tall at the center, 3 7/8" diameter across the center band (when using the last sizing notch) and 12 3/4" circumference at the bottom band (using the last notch). When using the first notch the circumference is 11".



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