THIS ITEM HAS SOLD*** Antique Napoleon III Era French Vermeil Sacred Heart Ex Voto with Inscription circa 1867

**This item has sold.** A glorious sacred heart with the sumptuous patina of gilt over silver, it has engraved provenance on the reverse side. It originates from a small collection just outside of Paris. It dates during the era of Napoleon III.

Vermeil has such a rich and lustrous appearance. It is the finest metal that a sacred heart was produced in during the late 19th century. This large heart, in a locket format, has a pronounced curve which produces a lovely box-like center. This heart has an engraved dedication "J. R. Reconnaissance a Marie 16 Juin 1867". This was most likely given as a thanksgiving and celebration of a marriage between to persons, "J and R". The heart opens to reveal a highly gilded center. The silver mark, sanglier, is found stamped on the inner edge. The face of the heart is beautifully engraved with two large palm fronds and a central "M" with a cross rising from the center. There are falling engraved "tears" surrounding the ferns and initials. The engraving reveals the silver underneath and gives the sacred heart face a two toned appearance (gilt and silver).

It measures:2 1/4" x 2", 3/4" thick. It is in very good antique condition, we have not polished it.

To find a sacred heart with provenance to a specific date is unusual. It is a precious ex voto with a beautiful personal history.