March Auction
Lot 227:
Antique Italian Carved Wood Holy Water Stoup with Madonna & Shell Basin signed Rogeau
Description
Carved wooden devotional holy water stoup, centered with an oval relief depicting the Virgin Mary in prayer, out of Meerschaum, shown with downcast eyes and crossed arms in a posture of humility and devotion. The relief is set within a molded oval surround and framed by an elaborate carved wooden backplate featuring scrolling acanthus and floral motifs, surmounted by a carved cross finial. The lower portion incorporates a natural St. Jacques shell serving as the holy water basin, affixed to the wooden support. Intended for wall mounting, this object would have served private devotional use within a domestic interior or small chapel. Signed Rogeau Deposee within frame.
Details:
Origin: Southern Europe (likely Italy)
Date: Style suggesting late 18th – early 19th century
Materials: Carved hardwood; relief medallion – Meerschaum; natural St. Jacques shell basin
Height: approx. 36 cm (14.25 in.)
Condition: Age-related wear throughout; stable age cracks to the wooden frame; surface abrasion and patina consistent with use; shell basin with natural irregularities and edge wear; structurally intact
Catalogue Note
The use of a natural shell as a holy water basin carries strong symbolic resonance within Christian devotional practice, referencing both baptism and pilgrimage traditions associated with the scallop shell.
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