Description
This exceptional antique Victorian cast sterling silver communion set consists of a chalice, paten and wine phial/flask.
The chalice has a circular rounded form onto a waisted knopped pedestal and spreading foot.
The surface of the chalice is ornamented with impressive engraved borders incorporating the stylised elucidating phrase 'Accept the cup of salvation', divided with an oval cartouche.
The circular motif bordered cartouche displays the contemporary engraved monogram initials 'IHS'*.
The cinquefoil shaped foot of this exceptional chalice is plain and unembellished, with an applied moulded borders paralleling the shaped rim.
The paten has a circular shaped form to a plain circular base.
The circular shaped well of the paten is ornamented with the contemporary engraved monogrammed initials 'IHS' to the centre, encompassed with the caption 'This do in remembrance of me', segmented with a simple cross design.
The shaped border of the paten is further ornamented with applied moulded decoration, in addition to bead motifs.
This antique communion set further benefits from the original sterling silver phial/flask.
The baluster shaped jug is ornamented with a further oval cartouche with monogram initials, in addition to engraved decoration incorporating the scriptural engraving 'This is my blood shed for many'.
The flask retains the original hallmarked domed sterling silver push fit cover surmounted with a knopped finial; this stopper retains the original cork.
This exceptional example of Victorian silverware is fitted with an elongated loop handle.
The jug is supported by a plain circular spreading foot.
This 19th century communion set is fitted to the original hinged leatherette box with velvet and satin interior, securing with a hinged catch.
* IHS comes from the first three letters of the Latinised version 'IHSOUS' of the Greek spelling 'ΙΗΣΟΥΣ', which translates as the Holy Name of Jesus. Many perceive these initials to delineate the Latin phrase 'Iesus Hominum Salvator' meaning 'Jesus the Saviour of all Men', which is not historically accurate.
Read a blog about ecclesiastic silver
