Antique Pendant Cross, French Enamelled Pendant Cross, French Cloisonne Cross, Circa 1870 7.5 x 4.5 Centimetres, Perfect Condition

Antique Pendant Cross, French Enamelled Pendant Cross, French Cloisonne Cross, Circa 1870 7.5 x 4.5 Centimetres, Perfect Condition

A stunning example of the enamel work produced by the masters at Limoges in France during the 19th century. The detail is exquisite and is continued onto the bale.

Cloisonné is an ancient technique for decorating metalwork objects with coloured material held in place or separated by metal strips or wire, here the stips are of bronze. The decoration is formed by first adding compartments (cloisons in French) to the metal object by soldering or affixing wires or thin strips placed on their edges. These remain visible in the finished piece, separating the different compartments of the enamel or inlays, which are often of several colours. Cloisonné enamel objects are worked on with enamel powder made into a paste, which then needs to be fired in a kiln. The skill of the artisans is superb as the powders are of a different colour once they have been fired.

This beautiful pendant cross is of bronze and the back is blank so it could be engraved as a Christening or Communion present.

It measures 7.5 x 4.5 centimetres, including the lovely bale, so it is a significant piece.