Rosary - .800 silver - 1850-1900 - Mediterranean Coral

DESCRIPTION:
Very beautiful and precious pilgrim rosary from the late 19th century – early 20th century (Belle Époque period, circa 1880-1910), complete with its 59 beads, accompanied by its original brown leather snap-strap case.
This devotional object stands out for the finesse of its craftsmanship, its patina, and the presence of numerous intermediate medals, all fashioned in solid silver.
• Materials: Round beads of natural Mediterranean coral in orange-red color. Structure, links of the “prisoner’s chain” type, cross and medals in solid silver.
• Dimensions & Weight:
• Total length: 42 cm
• Total weight: 11.2 grams
• The medals and symbolism:
• Upper end medal (top of the rosary): Represents the Virgin with Child on the obverse, with the inscription finely engraved on the reverse “N.D. DE LA GARDE” (Our Lady of Grace, Marseille) accompanied by a sprig of lily.
• Connection medal (Heart): Adorned with a magnificent profile of the veiled and aureoled Virgin Mary on the obverse. The reverse features an elegant, finely chased floral design in Art Nouveau style. Illegible signature.
• Intermediate medals: Small medals depicting Christ and the Virgin Mary, separating each decade.
• The crucifix: Beautiful cross with elaborately worked ends, centered by a finely molded relief of Christ.
• Hallmarks: French state marks for small silver articles (boar’s head/crab, minimum fineness 800/1000) officially stamped on all elements: the crucifix ring, the heart of connection, and each of the intermediate medals.
• Composition: 59 beads (complete liturgical structure of 5 decades).
• Accessory: Sold with its protective period leather case with a snap flap, exhibiting a very nice patina from use.
CONDITION:
Overall good period condition. Beautiful old patina on the silver (natural oxidation that highlights the reliefs, removable according to the buyer’s preferences). The coral beads are healthy and well preserved. The chain structure is perfectly solid. The leather case is functional with normal, charming wear for its age.
A magnificent testimony to Provençal popular religious art and to high-end pilgrimage metalwork from the late 19th century.