TAHAN is a name that stands out in 19th century. Make to Kings, Emperors, it would be synonymous with the name Tiffany in the USA. This stunning hand carved 17.5" tall holy font is from TAHAN. No finer quality objects than from TAHAN, really. The era is Napoleon III, c.1850-70, mid-Victorian. A stunning and pristine hand painted porcelain plaque mounted into the carved frame shows Mary, her eyes upturned in prayer. Beautifully crafted and in fine condition throughout. Full measurements are noted on the photos, but this is a large and magnificent wall-hanging, more art than devotional, perhaps. Just in recently from France. We've had some exceptionally fine holy fonts over the decades, to include a masterpiece or two from Garrett Freres. This one falls among the very finest, I think.
Very good to excellent condition throughout. I see no flaws or losses to note apart from what might represent the removal of a plaque or small panel of carving of dedication to a particular family or cathedral, which appears up top on that wide banner below the cross. Not unsightly at all, but a smoother un-carved area there which varies very slightly in color. The holy font has a black coating of some sort which would appear to be fine for actual use as a basin for holy water. Again, all measurements noted on photos.