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.
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.
