A VINTAGE MONSTRANCE

The Monstrance is an ornamental instrument used by Catholic and Orthodox Christian priests during the Eucharist - the reenactment of the Last Supper. The monstrance typically houses 'the host' which refers to the bread that symbolizes the body of Christ and is used by the priest to bless the congregation. This particular piece was used in Pondicherry and is beautifully fashioned into a sunburst design that is favoured in most churches. The base is decorated with six scalloped elements with floral design. The shaft has a faceted feature on top of which rests the central window that holds the consecrated host during mass. This round element is decorated with flaring solar rays and on top rests a decorated cross.

Gold plated bronze
14.5 x 8.5 x 1.5 in. (36.8 x 21.6 x 3.8 cm.)