19th Century French Hand-Painted Faience Cross from Rouen, Dated 1885

$750

About

Measuring 10.5 inches tall by 6 inches wide and 4.5 inches deep, this antique hand-painted ceramic cross was crafted in France and bears the inscription “1885” on its underside, anchoring it firmly in the late 19th century. The form, decoration, and palette are closely associated with the Rouen faience tradition, known for its intricate floral and scroll motifs rendered in cobalt blue, ochre, green, and iron red. The cross stands on a flared, lobed base and rises into a stylized Fleur-de-Lys form with an opening at the top, suggesting it may have originally functioned as a holy water font or small devotional vase. Each face is richly enameled with floral bouquets and ornate foliate designs, all delicately hand-done under a glossy glaze. Areas of wear and glaze loss are visible at the extremities, consistent with age and use, and do not detract from the vivid presentation. A soulful piece of antique French devotional art, ideal for display on a console, bookshelf, or incorporated into a larger religious or faience collection.

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