Crucifix - Brass, bronze, glass tesserae, and polychrome enamels. - 19th century (c. 1870–1900)






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Description from the seller
Italy (Rome) – Important crucifix / large blessing cross in brass and Roman micromosaic (Micromosaico) – Views of the major basilicas & the Holy Spirit – 19th century era
Presentation & Iconography
Superb and important blessing or altar cross in gilded brass, a remarkable souvenir of the Grand Tour made in Rome in the 19th century.
Central iconography: The Christ in bronze/brass, raised in relief, surmounted by the radiant Dove of the Holy Spirit against a background of intense blue enamel.
Micromosaic medallions: The four ends of the cross incorporate meticulous panels in glass micromosaic (tesserae) depicting the emblematic monuments and major basilicas of Rome:
Top: St. Peter’s Basilica and its square.
Left and right arms: Major Roman basilicas (such as St. John Lateran and Santa Maria Maggiore).
Base: The Pantheon or the Colosseum.
Ornamentation: The contours and the lower shaft are richly adorned with garlands of flowers (forget-me-nots, daisies) and traditional Italian geometric motifs.
Technical characteristics
Origin: Italy (Roman workshops)
Era: 19th century (c. 1870–1900)
Materials: Brass, bronze, glass tesserae and polychrome enamels
Dimensions:
Height: 21.8 cm
Width: 14 cm
Thickness: 0.5 cm
Gross weight: 438 g
Overall condition: Very beautiful and rare large format, in good condition for an object of such finesse.
Micromosaic: The central panels are well preserved with magnificent details. Light and minor traces of period use.
Mounting & Patina: Beautiful original brass gilding patina with a suspension ring at the top.
Italy (Rome) – Important crucifix / large blessing cross in brass and Roman micromosaic (Micromosaico) – Views of the major basilicas & the Holy Spirit – 19th century era
Presentation & Iconography
Superb and important blessing or altar cross in gilded brass, a remarkable souvenir of the Grand Tour made in Rome in the 19th century.
Central iconography: The Christ in bronze/brass, raised in relief, surmounted by the radiant Dove of the Holy Spirit against a background of intense blue enamel.
Micromosaic medallions: The four ends of the cross incorporate meticulous panels in glass micromosaic (tesserae) depicting the emblematic monuments and major basilicas of Rome:
Top: St. Peter’s Basilica and its square.
Left and right arms: Major Roman basilicas (such as St. John Lateran and Santa Maria Maggiore).
Base: The Pantheon or the Colosseum.
Ornamentation: The contours and the lower shaft are richly adorned with garlands of flowers (forget-me-nots, daisies) and traditional Italian geometric motifs.
Technical characteristics
Origin: Italy (Roman workshops)
Era: 19th century (c. 1870–1900)
Materials: Brass, bronze, glass tesserae and polychrome enamels
Dimensions:
Height: 21.8 cm
Width: 14 cm
Thickness: 0.5 cm
Gross weight: 438 g
Overall condition: Very beautiful and rare large format, in good condition for an object of such finesse.
Micromosaic: The central panels are well preserved with magnificent details. Light and minor traces of period use.
Mounting & Patina: Beautiful original brass gilding patina with a suspension ring at the top.
