Large antique cloisonné enamel wall cross with stoup

This unusual wall cross comprises cloisonné enamel decoration, mounted atop an ebonised wood backing. The contrast between the pastel decoration and the dark wood is particularly pleasing.  

The crucifix takes the form of a traditional, Christian budded cross, surmounted by a clover-shaped gilt metal handle which can attach the cross to the wall. The enamel decoration is set upon an unusual pale yellow ground, which complements the complex patterning above. In the centre of the cross sits a bright blue four-petalled flower, surrounded by four larger flower-and-vine motifs in shades of pink, red, blue, green, and gold. The vines wrap around the flower buds in a heart-esque design, which is highly pleasing. The entire central panel is bordered with a red and gilt triangular design, that provides an interesting contrast to the curving foliate motifs within. Similar flower-and-vine designs adorn the rest of the cross, bordered by the same patterning.

Below the main body of the cross sits a protruding stoup, traditionally used as a basin for holy water, into which worshippers can dip their fingers before crossing themselves. The stoup is decorated with different cloisonne enamel decoration, with layers of geometric design rendered in greens, blues, purples, and gold.

The upper gilt panel on the reverse is stamped ‘1138’.

This crucifix highlights the fantastic quality of the religious decorative objects being made in France at the end of the 19^th century.