Antique French Gilded Brass Filagree Santos Crown

A magnificent authentic antique, this large crown would have graced a Madonna or Santos statue in a French Catholic Church. Gilded crowns such as this are specific to France (Spain and Italy produced silver crowns). It dates toward 1900 and originates from Paris.

The body of the crown is entirely done in filigree work (popular during the 1900's). This type of metalwork produced a surprisingly delicate pattern which appears as fine lace. Arabesques, scrolls, tiny globes are all combined to produce an impressive and regal crown. The "arms" cascade from the center top to the bottom band. They are set (bezel) with large ruby, emerald and clear glass stones. The 1/2" wide band at the bottom has fine filigree work which is set with large clear glass stones. There is a gilded brass globe at the top with a cross rising from the center. There is one single emerald glass stone set into the center of the cross. The band has three places for adjustment of the diameter.

The crown in in exceptional condition. There are a few slight irregular bends to the metal as is typical with these pieces. It is a heavy piece despite it's light appearance. It measures: 6 1/2" tall, 4 7/8" in diameter at the bottom in the first notch, adjusting to 5 1/4" in diameter. It is 6 1/2" wide across the top. The arms are 1 7/8" wide at the widest point.