This exceptional antique Victorian cast sterling silver gilt communion set consists of a chalice, paten and wine phial/flask.
The chalice has a circular rounded form onto a panelled hexagonal knopped pedestal and spreading foot.
The surface of the chalice is ornamented with impressive engraved undulating borders accented with geometric motifs, all above a lobed design emanating from the panelled knopped pedestal.
The hexagonal foot of this exceptional chalice is encircled with engraved arched geometric designs, accented with applied moulded borders to the rim.
The paten has a circular form to a plain circular base.
The plateaued border of the paten is embellished with impressive engraved simplified organic motifs flanked between applied bead style borders.
The circular well of the paten is ornamented with a fine and impressive engraved quatrefoil motif with the initials 'IHS'* to the centre.
This antique communion set further benefits from the original cranberry coloured glass phial/flask.
The original hallmarked upper mount of the flask features further engraved decoration reflecting that to the chalice, in addition to a pierced incurved shaped border.
The flask retains the original hallmarked domed sterling silver gilt push fit cover.
This exceptional example of Victorian glassware is fitted with an S scroll handle with spiralling terminals.
The jug is supported by an hexagonal foot accented with applied borders to the rim.
The foot to both the wine phial and chalice bears the engraved initials 'C.W.B.'; the underside of each base features the retailer's mark 'Cox and Sons, Southampton ST, London'.
The surface of each piece retains the original gilding.
This antique communion set is fitted to the original hinged leatherette box with velvet and satin interior, securing with a push fit.
The interior of the box features the retailer's mark 'Cox & Sons, 29 Southampton Streen, Strand'.
* 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 Savior of all Men', which is not historically accurate.
Read a blog about ecclesiastic silver
Maker: Cox & Sons (Thomas Cox & Edward Cox)
