A large Ghent silver gilt Gothic Revival monstrance
The six-lobed base with fine fleur de lys decor and bearing six applied enamelled medallions with depictions of apostles and the Virgin Mary. The compressed nodule with bezel-set amethyst cabochons. The cylindrical ostensorium surrounded by an ornate architectural frame in the Gothic taste with two flanking figures of seraphim, and a figure of Christ adored by a kneeling female figure and angels. The entire piece set throughout with diamonds (total ca. 3,6 ct.), pearls, sapphires, rubies, amethysts, garnets and opals. H ca. 82; W 25 cm, weight 4,225 g.
Marks of Edouard Bourdon, 1892
The Bourdon studio was one of the most famous Belgian goldsmiths of the 19th and 20th century, working for both aristocratic and religious patrons in and outside of the Belgian borders. Following his participation in the world fairs of 1867 (Paris), 1873 (Vienna), and 1878 (Paris), the firm's founder Armand Bourdon the Elder was named court goldsmith before passing the running of the company over to his son Edouard in 1888. Bourdon's Neo-Gothic works were not only considered finely made and sought-after works of art in their own right, but were also acclaimed as unique designs of exceptional quality in the context of the design reforms taking place at the time they were made. The original scale drawing for this piece has survived, and bears the stamp of the famous Bressers-Blanchaert studio in Maltebrugge, with whom Bourdon worked closely.
Certificate
A gemstone expertise is available upon request.
Literature
Ten Bokum u. a. (ed.), Bourdon 1811 - 1967, cat. of the exhibition in Antwerp.
Exhibitions
Bourdon 1811 - 1967, Zilvermuseum Sterckshof, Antwerp 2002.