Antique Nineteenth Century Gilded Bronze Religious Frame with Central Cross

A spectacular religious adornment, it would have mounted (via a mount at the bottom) onto a rod and used in processions or on an altar table. It originates from a small parish collection near Marseille and dates towards 1890.

Both bronze and brass were used to cast the frame (it is solid and heavy for it's delicate appearance). The four facing pairs of scrolls are mounted to the "twisting" braid outer edge. This edge also forms a channel into which 60 clear, faceted, bezel set glass stones are placed. There is a 1/4" wide bronze oval which holds the glass into place. All metals have been heavily gilded. The Maltese cross at the top center is beautifully designed, with tiny raised dots along the edge and "teardrop" edges to the arms for the cross. Deep sapphire blue glass stones (blue is symbolic for the Virgin Mary) accent the cross and the facing curved scrolls.

There is an old early 19th Century manuscript placed inside; this would not have been the original document (which could have been changed according to the nature of the service/procession). There is a cardboard oval which is covered with rose silk which closes the back (via four folding brass clamps). The two inch sleeve mount at the bottom would have held a small squared rod. It measures: 11 3/4" tall (to top of cross). The frame itself measures 6" x 7"; with the facing scrolls 8 1/4" x 9 1/2". It is in very good antique condition; the patina remains brilliant and all stones are present.

It is an unusual religious piece which would make a fine addition to a personal altar space or religious collection.