quatrefoil base with wolf's head feet; large floriform element, surmounted by a cross, with glass window in center

Monstrance (ostensoir), c. 1851

Not on Viewexpand_more

A monstrance is used to display the consecrated host during the Blessed Sacrament in a Roman Catholic church or in a procession for Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. This example, or a nearly identical one, was part of an award winning altar service shown by the firm of Poussielgue-Rusand at the London Crystal Palace Exhibition in 1851, an influential exposition of industrial arts from around the world.

The Art Journal Illustrated Catalogue of the Exhibition describes Poussielgue-Rusand as one of the most extensive European manufacturers of chandeliers, chalices, and other ecclesiastical furnishings, and this monstrance is referred to as "an elaborate and rich piece of workmanship of very elegant and novel design."

Details
Title
Monstrance (ostensoir)
Artist Life
(dates unknown)
Role
Designer
Accession Number
2001.218
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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quatrefoil base with wolf's head feet; large floriform element, surmounted by a cross, with glass window in center