A large and impressive late nineteenth century French silver gilt Radiate-monstrance with champlevé enamelled medallions rising from a quatrefoil base. It is hallmarked with the French 19th century silver hallmark (Minerva) and the makers mark for Chevron Freres (Brothers) the Parisian goldsmiths.

The cross at the top of the monstrance is finished with an enamel of the cross.

The central lunula containing a blessed sacrament is surrounded by a circle of large diamanté effect stones and high-quality champlevé enamel. Contained within the central hand painted enamel quatrefoil are four medallions depicting the four evangelists – Mathew, Mark, Luke and John. A further layer of filigree work surrounds the quatrefoil incorporating grapes and foliage.

The circular stem is finished with fine engraving work and faux ruby cabochons on the decorative knop flanking four enamels of the Holy Arch Angel.

The quatrefoil base contains four further champlevé enamel medallions depicting four Saints.

The monstrance is in original used condition (unpolished) which I like, but she could be polished if you prefer more bling!  In 14 years of trading I have sold a lot of religious artefacts and this is the most wonderful monstrance I have been able to offer for sale and I know I am unlikely to get anything like this again. It is a work of art. I have a copy of the last purchasers receipt from 21st April, 1986 for 200,000 Belgian francs which historically equates to around $8k in NZ dollars.