Antique 19th Century French Mother of Pearl Crucifix – Hallmarked Solid Silver Cross – Religious Pendant 92mm

Beautiful antique French crucifix dating from the 19th century, finely crafted from genuine mother of pearl and hallmarked solid silver.

This remarkable devotional cross combines the natural luminosity of mother of pearl with beautifully detailed silver mounts and ornaments.

The cross itself is formed from two sections of genuine mother of pearl, displaying subtle natural iridescent reflections. The front is adorned with a finely modelled solid silver figure of Christ, with beautifully rendered facial features, hair, anatomy and draped loincloth.

Above Christ is the traditional INRI plaque, separately applied to the mother of pearl.

Particularly beautiful are the four ends of the cross, each finished with an elaborate openwork silver spherical ornamentdecorated with scrolling and floral motifs. Their delicate, almost filigree appearance gives the crucifix an especially refined character. Silver collars connect these decorative finials to the mother-of-pearl arms.

At the top is a silver suspension bail, allowing the crucifix to be worn or displayed. The solid silver hallmark is located on the bail.

The reverse, clearly shown in the photographs, reveals the beautiful natural surface and subtle variations of the mother of pearl. Small metal fixing rivets can also be seen on the back, illustrating the traditional construction of this antique piece.

Measuring an impressive 9.2 cm / 3.62 inches high, this is a substantial antique crucifix with a strong decorative presence while retaining its original devotional character.

A wonderful example of 19th-century French religious jewellery, ideal for a collector of antique crucifixes, Catholic devotional objects, mother-of-pearl jewellery or fine French religious antiques.

Period: 19th century
Origin: France
Materials: genuine mother of pearl and hallmarked solid silver
Height: 92 mm / 9.2 cm / 3.62 in
Width: 58 mm / 5.8 cm / 2.28 in
Weight: 15 g / 0.53 oz

Beautiful antique condition, with minor signs of age and natural variations consistent with the age and materials of the piece. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the description and provide the best indication of its condition and fine workmanship.

A beautiful piece of 19th-century French devotional jewellery, combining the soft iridescence of mother of pearl with finely worked silver.