This exceptional two piece antique Elizabethan sterling silver communion set consists of a chalice and paten/diskos.
The chalice has a cylindrical tapering shaped form onto a plain knopped pedestal and spreading circular foot.
The body of this sterling silver communion cup is encircled with a simplified band of engraved leaf decoration with interlacing segments.
The rim of the chalice foot is encircled with an egg decorated border.
The paten has a plain circular form to a plain circular pedestal foot; this paten can also be inverted to form a secure cover.
The underside and foot of the paten are encircled with further engraved decoration reflecting the style of that to the chalice body.
This antique cup and paten have a fine colour and patination*.
Often such communion sets are divided through time; original 16th century sets are rare and becoming increasingly difficult to locate.
* Patination or Patina is a subtle colouration or tarnish which forms on the surface of some metals, produced by oxidation or other chemical processes. A good patina proffers an aesthetically pleasing look.
How to clean antique silver
Maker: Robert Medley
Date: 1569
