Antique French Sterling Silver Ciborium Chalice – Restauration Period, 1819-1838
Beautiful antique French religious ciborium in sterling silver, dating from the Restauration period of the early 19th century. This elegant Catholic liturgical vessel is crafted in 950/1000 sterling silver and features a cross at the top.
The piece bears three identified French hallmarks, providing valuable information about its age and origin:
• Vieillard hallmark in a hexagonal frame, located around the host container, with the profile facing 90° to the right. This hallmark indicates French silver of 950/1000 purity, produced in the provinces, circa 1819-1838.
• Shell hallmark on the foot, corresponding to the small guarantee mark used for lighter silver objects by a tax office in eastern France during the 19th century.
• Horse Head hallmark on the pedestal, dating from approximately 1835-1838, accompanied by the "gros objet" mark.
The ciborium has a total height of 11 cm, including the cross, and weighs 61.9 grams in silver. It remains in good overall antique condition and retains a beautiful mirror-like finish to the silver.