Monstrance

Designed to present the sacred Host for the adoration of the faithful, monstrances have over time undergone profound changes, approximating styles prevalent up to the 17th century, the ostensory frequently taking on the form of a radiating sun. They were usually made from valuable metals and sometimes even enriched with precious stones.
This gilt silver monstrance has a circular base standing on feet in the form of plant coils which alternate with chiseled shell and pearl motifs. The object is carved and engraved throughout with plant designs. The shaft includes two flattened spheres: the smaller one is plain while the larger one is more intricately worked with geometric and plant decoration. The circular glass ostensory in the centre where the sacred Host is displayed, is supported on the front by a standing angel with arms raised. The sun’s rays, straight or undulating, are marked by a wheat-ear motif that alludes to the sacred bread of the Mass, which alternates with a fleur-de-lys motif. It is topped by a Greek cross terminating in plain silver circles. The open flower among the wheat decoration under the cross is a characteristic which indicates its probably local provenance.