This item has SOLD*** Antique 19th Century Jesuit French Mother of Pearl Sacred Heart Ex Voto

This item has been SOLD; please do not purchase.

This is a spectacular and rare sacred heart ex voto which bears the initials for the Jesuit order, The Society of Jesus. It originates from a very fine collection in Paris and dates circa 1880,

The Society of Jesus is a scholarly religious congregation of the Catholic Church for men founded in the 16th century by Ignatius of Loyola in Paris France.

There is a triple tier form to the voto which gives a pronounced presence to the beautiful mother of pearl wafer. The base of the voto forms a channel (by a twisting bronze band) which is encrusted by 26 clear glass stones. A second tier is formed by a 1/4" gilded bronze band in the shape of a heart. On the ledge of this heart shape 24 clear glass stones have been mounted.

The third tier is a very fancy gilded brass band in the form of repeating fleur de lis. This serves as the mount for a natural mother of pearl wafer. The two initials,"SJ" are formed by individual bezel set clear glass stones. The wafer was hand cut from a natural shell and has a ravishing patina which reflects rainbow colors and different shades of white and grey.

The flame is lovely, with a slight curve at the base. Seven individual flames are set with clear glass stones in three sizes. The voto opens from the top to reveal an inner pocket (for placing an intention, thanksgiving or prayer). There is a mounted brass ring at the back for threading a chain or ribbon. It measures: 4 3/4" high, 2 1/4" wide at the widest point. It is in very good antique condition with all stones present.

It is an amazing artistic work which combines metal, glass and mother of pearl. It is a very special ex voto which represents faith, love and hope.