Rosary (2) - .800 silver - 1920-1930 - + Decade rosary

Rare Art Deco Communion Set – Large Rosary and Decade Bracelet in Solid Silver (Crab Hallmark) and Mother-of-Pearl – France, circa 1920–1930

Lot Description

Superb and rare matching devotional set dating from the Art Deco period (circa 1920–1930), comprising a large five-decade rosary and its matching decade bracelet. A magnificent period First Communion set, fully authenticated by official French hallmarks.

1. Large Art Deco Catholic Rosary

• Materials: Solid silver (except for the links) and natural mother-of-pearl beads.
• Beads: 59 genuine, slightly irregular “baroque” mother-of-pearl beads, with magnificent iridescent reflections and a soft patina from use.
• Crucifix: Superb solid-silver cross with clean, geometric lines, decorated with engraved chevron motifs characteristic of the Art Deco style.
• Rosary centerpiece: Elongated octagonal solid-silver medal depicting the Virgin Mary in profile. The lower link is cleverly stylized as the number “5” to indicate the five decades.
• Hallmarks: Official “Crab” hallmark (800/1000 silver), clearly visible on the upper ring of the cross and at the base of the centerpiece.
• Dimensions: Folded length: 47 cm.
• Weight: 26.5 g.

2. Matching Decade Bracelet

• Materials: Solid silver (including the links) and natural mother-of-pearl beads.
• Beads: 10 main mother-of-pearl beads and 2 separator beads (Our Fathers), delicately set in scalloped metal cups (bead caps).
• Cross: Small trefoil-ended solid-silver cross, richly engraved with First Communion symbols: the Holy Chalice, the radiant Host, an ear of wheat, and botanical motifs.
• Clasp: Functional spring-ring clasp, allowing it to be worn comfortably on the wrist.
• Hallmarks: Official “Crab” hallmark (800/1000 silver) and a maker’s mark in a lozenge stamped on the cross ring; a small guarantee mark is also present on one of the chain links.
• Dimensions: Unfolded length: 20 cm including the medal, making the actual wrist circumference approximately 17.5 cm. This is closer to a women’s size.
• Weight: 9.2 g.

Condition

• Total weight of the set: 35.7 g.
• Condition: Both pieces are in good overall condition. Beautiful period patina on the silver (slightly oxidized in the recesses, highlighting the engraved details). The mother-of-pearl is sound, with no major losses. Original chains and links, sturdy and complete.
A cohesive, refined historical set and a highly collectible ensemble.