This item has SOLD Antique 19th Century French Gilded Brass Sacred Heart Rayonnant

***THIS ITEM HAS SOLD***A striking sacred heart voto, it is surrounding by a fanfare of outward reaching rays (called "rayonnant). It originates from a collection in the south of France (there were three of this particular ex voto in the collection (we sell them individually) which were most likely used on the face of an altar).

The cast metal form has great detailing. The rounded heart shape face is delicately engraved with the initials "ND" (Notre Dame) and a central scepter with a crown and fleur de lis at the top. There are two other initials, "DE" between to the left and right of the scepter (which stood for the name of the particular parish). The flame is deeply grooved with a texturing applied which gives a life-like form. The 19 rays (1 1/2" long) have two different levels which give an illuminated effect to the gilded brass. There is a working door at the back. When open, both the door and the facing heart are matched with engraved numerals "XI".

The entire voto measures 5" x 5", the heart alone measures 3 1/4" x 1 3/4", the heart is 5/8" thick. It is in very good antique condition: some loss of gilding on face of heart. There is verdigris along one bottom front ray and two rays (at the back).

The rayonnant heart is not often found. This is a splendid antique example with provenance to a particular parish in the south of France.