Decorative ornament - Silver angel

Magnificent piece of ancient metalwork representing a cherub (putto) in repoussé and chased silver, in the purest Spanish or Italian Baroque style.

The angel is depicted in flight, reclining on clouds formed of finely wrought scrolls. He holds in one hand a chain from which hangs a ring (possibly intended to receive an incense burner, a votive lamp, or a crown).

Notable details:

• Wings with feathers finely chased with great attention to detail
• Chubby body characteristic of putti from the Baroque period
• Stylized drapery in relief
• Ornamental clouds in rounded scrolls
• Suspension hook in period metal

This type of object was typically used as a liturgical ornament (altarpiece, baldachin, altar decoration) in European churches of the 17th or 18th century.