Shrine - Marble - 1850-1900






Holds a degree in art history; over six years cataloguing and appraising antiques.
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Rare polychrome marble household altar dating from circa 1850–1900, made of marble, with a height of 41 cm, width 20.5 cm and depth 15.5 cm, weight over 11 kg, produced in Europe in good used condition.
Description from the seller
Rare polychrome marble house altar – ca. 19th century
Beautiful and impressive marble home altar, crafted in richly polychrome natural stone and of exceptional quality and weight (more than 11 kg). This object radiates craftsmanship, devotion, and timeless elegance, and is a particularly decorative and historic piece.
The altar is architecturally constructed with small columns, a classical pedestal and a profiled crown. The combination of different marble varieties creates a striking color palette and makes this piece a real eye-catcher.
Marble types used (probably):
White marble / alabaster marble – pedestal and rear
Red marble (Rosso Verona or similar) – little columns
Pink/ochre-colored marble (such as Brocatello or Breccia) – side panels
Gray-veined marble – intermediate elements
Black marble with gold-brown veining (Portoro-like) – finial
This combination was particularly popular in the 19th century, especially in Southern Europe (Italy / France), where such objects were handcrafted.
Usage & function
This type of home altar was used for:
Personal devotion and prayer at home
Placement of a crucifix, a statue of a saint, or a relic
Sometimes also as a small memorial or prayer altar
Such altars were often found in a private chapel, parlor, or bedroom and formed a spiritual centerpiece in Catholic households.
Dating
Based on style, use of materials, and workmanship, this piece can be dated to the 19th century (circa 1850–1900).
Dimensions
Height: approx. 41 cm
Width: approx. 20.5 cm
Depth: approx. 15.5 cm
Weight: > 11 kg
state
Good, authentic condition with normal signs of use and aging, appropriate to its age (see photos). No modern restorations observed.
A rare and characterful collectible, ideal for lovers of religious art, antique marble, interior decor, or 19th-century craftsmanship.
Rare polychrome marble house altar – ca. 19th century
Beautiful and impressive marble home altar, crafted in richly polychrome natural stone and of exceptional quality and weight (more than 11 kg). This object radiates craftsmanship, devotion, and timeless elegance, and is a particularly decorative and historic piece.
The altar is architecturally constructed with small columns, a classical pedestal and a profiled crown. The combination of different marble varieties creates a striking color palette and makes this piece a real eye-catcher.
Marble types used (probably):
White marble / alabaster marble – pedestal and rear
Red marble (Rosso Verona or similar) – little columns
Pink/ochre-colored marble (such as Brocatello or Breccia) – side panels
Gray-veined marble – intermediate elements
Black marble with gold-brown veining (Portoro-like) – finial
This combination was particularly popular in the 19th century, especially in Southern Europe (Italy / France), where such objects were handcrafted.
Usage & function
This type of home altar was used for:
Personal devotion and prayer at home
Placement of a crucifix, a statue of a saint, or a relic
Sometimes also as a small memorial or prayer altar
Such altars were often found in a private chapel, parlor, or bedroom and formed a spiritual centerpiece in Catholic households.
Dating
Based on style, use of materials, and workmanship, this piece can be dated to the 19th century (circa 1850–1900).
Dimensions
Height: approx. 41 cm
Width: approx. 20.5 cm
Depth: approx. 15.5 cm
Weight: > 11 kg
state
Good, authentic condition with normal signs of use and aging, appropriate to its age (see photos). No modern restorations observed.
A rare and characterful collectible, ideal for lovers of religious art, antique marble, interior decor, or 19th-century craftsmanship.
