Holy-water stoup 1850 - 1899

Alfred André crafted this stunning Holy-water stoup from rock crystal, silver gilt, and enamel sometime in the late 19th or early 20th century. André was known for his work in the historicist style, and this piece embodies that sensibility through its intricate design. Consider how the choice of materials elevates a simple vessel for holy water into a symbol of luxury and status. The use of rock crystal, a naturally clear and precious material, reflects a desire for purity and elegance. Silver gilt and enamel were expensive to produce, and they add an element of grandeur, emphasizing the stoup's importance within a religious setting, and also the class of people using it. To truly appreciate André's work, we delve into the social and religious history of France, researching the patronage system that supported artists like him. It is through this wider lens that we can understand the full significance of this seemingly simple, yet deeply symbolic object.