This exceptional antique Victorian cast sterling silver communion set consists of a chalice, paten and wine phial/flask.
The chalice has a circular baluster form onto a knopped pedestal and spreading foot.
The surface of the antique chalice is ornamented with impressive embossed quatrefoil cartouches bearing contemporary engraved initials 'IHS'*.
The surface of the drinking vessel is further embellished with impressive flat engraved decoration, emanating from the protruding cartouches, in addition to encircling the upper rim below a plain moulded border.
The knops to the panelled pedestal are encompassed with bead decoration.
The circular foot of this exceptional chalice is encircled with flat engraved arched geometric designs.
The paten has a circular-shaped form to a plain circular foot.
The raised border of the paten is embellished with impressive flat engraved decoration, reflecting that of the upper portion of the chalice.
The shaped rim is encompassed with a plain applied decorated border.
The well of the paten is ornamented with a fine and impressive contemporary engraved initials 'IHS' to the centre.
This antique communion set further benefits from the original baluster shaped phial/flask.
This jug is embellished with further embossed and flat engraved decoration reflecting that to the chalice.
The flask retains the original sterling silver push fit stopper.
This exceptional example of Victorian silverware is fitted with an opposing scroll handle, with a scrolling thumbpiece.
The interior of the chalice/goblet retains the original gilding.
This exceptional communion set is the finest example of its type you could hope to acquire.
* 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.
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Maker: George Unite
Date: 1866
