19th Century French Champlevé Enamel Holy Water Font on Green Marble

$375

About

This finely crafted antique holy water font, or bénitier, combines devotional symbolism with richly colored French enamel work. Crafted in France circa 1880, the religious object features a cross-shaped green marble plaque mounted with an ornate brass and champlevé enamel cross.

The applied cross is decorated with intricate floral and foliate motifs in shades of cobalt blue, turquoise, ivory, and deep red, all outlined by warm brass borders. Unlike cloisonné, champlevé decoration is created by filling recessed areas within the metal surface with colored enamel before firing and polishing. The technique produces the jewel-like finish and crisp patterning displayed throughout this piece.

Below the cross is a small projecting holy water receptacle fitted with its original hinged cover. Its coordinating enamel decoration echoes the colors and ornamentation of the cross, creating a harmonious composition against the softly veined green marble. The reverse retains its sturdy brass support and original hanging ring for easy wall installation.

Petite in scale yet visually striking, this antique French bénitier would make a meaningful addition to a prayer room, bedroom, devotional collection, or gallery wall. The piece is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use, with bright enamel colors and a warm aged patina.

Dimensions: 3.25″ W x 5.25″ H

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