Wonderfully preserved with only a few tiny colored glass tesserae missing from this large souvenir of someone's c.1880-1910 visit to Rome. The cruciform or crucifix form is a sturdy 1/4" deep silvered brass or bronze basin into which the artisan has worked, and more than 100 years later, it holds the art perfectly. The ascending white dove represents Christ, of course, and a 2nd teal-backed mosaic carries the theme. The 4 outer quatrefoil micro mosaics are top notable architectural depictions of church of Rome, with St. Peter's up top. Full measurements noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition. As noted, there are a few tiny glass tiles or tesserae missing around the turquoise mat of the dove mosaic. Age evident here or there on the cross's metal basin, it originally had a silvered or nickel plating but the brass or bronze mostly showing on the facade and the silvering mostly intact on the back. Displays beautifully! Vibrant colored glass in tiny bits laid entirely by hand into place to create each scene, it's rare to find these complete and undamaged. Also more rare in these larger sized ones. Hanging loop remains up top. See images for all measurements.
