Antique Eighteenth Century Tabernacle Door

$895.00

A precious relic of religious ornamentation, it originates from the Avignon region of France and dates towards 1790. It is hand carved and heavily gilded and retains the original iron lock (no key) and door hinges (no pins).

The patina is amazing. Eighteenth century gilding involved an undercoat of red paint which imparts a magical burnished appearance. Hand carved wheat sheaves and grape clusters are in relief onto a concave surface. These elements represent the Eucharist.

The door would have mounted onto a small tabernacle within the alter of a small parish church. These were often destroyed as time and elements lead them to decay; usually the only part which was salvaged was the door (it was separate from the entire structure).

It measures: 15 1/2" x 8 1/4" x 3/4" thick. It is in good antique condition; over 200 years old. The gilding/paint/plaster have worn to the wood at the bottom. There are crackling lines in the gilt as is typical with age and climate. The door is solid, the carved elements still remain. It is a marvelous small part of
history from a local French parish.