From an increasingly secular France, these 19th century household holy fonts regularly come to market. We found this one in France, and it's in exceptionally fine condition. Kiln-fired champleve enamel work on the cross-topped frame and lidded holy font, it is a reminder of the elegant stained glass windows of all the old cathedrals. The portrait miniature is a painting on a convex porcelain plaque, and is a depiction of Mary and the Christ child - a Madonna pose against a bright gold, the entire heavy metal mount is backed by a pristine marble backing and again heavy brass mount with hanging apparatus on back. Full measurements noted on the photos.
Both a religious devotional item and a work of fine decorative art, characteristic of the ornate craftsmanship popular during the French Second Empire under Napoleon III. It would likely have been used in a private chapel or home. During the 18th and 19th centuries, especially in devout Catholic households in France, it was common to have a domestic holy water font mounted near a bedroom door or in a hallway. Family members would bless themselves before prayers, before bed, or when leaving the house, invoking divine protection and sanctity within the home. A wonderful decorative and/or devotional piece and one of a few that we currently have available. Browse & enjoy!
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, dating to late 1800s (19th century), there is nothing but a patina of age to the brass, which can be brightened with brass polish should one want a high gold shine. The enamel work is excellent and there are no chips nor hairlines or cracks on the marble backing. Focal point portrait miniature is a Madonna scene, hand painted on a convex plaque of porcelain. I see one faint scratch, but nothing more to diminish enjoyment or future value. A beautiful devotional, indeed.
