197

Italian solid silver ex-voto, Naples, 1832-1872

Height x width 17 x 11 cm. Weight: 79 g.
A form of folk art, handcrafted objects that represent testimonies of devotion and religiosity, often linked to miraculous events or requests for miracles, often positioned between history and legend, much like relics. The themes depicted are usually Madonnas, Saints, or categories of vows such as healings, accidents, and natural disasters, with patrons coming from various social classes.

In this case, we see depicted the scene of the Assumption of the Virgin, with the Virgin Mary at the center, surrounded by two winged cherubim, placed within a border of garlands, flowers, and leaves. Votive tablets reflect the ritual commitment of the petitioner, the one who makes the vow, who may coincide with the recipient of the miracle, the one who has suffered harm, and the deity who intercedes.
The space on the tablet, as in this plaque, is usually divided into two distinct parts: one dedicated to the deity, with a votive inscription and a representation of the deity. Therefore, we find the letters F.E. written around the depiction, votive initials for "Fatto Esaurito" or "Fede Eseguita" (Vow Fulfilled or Faith Executed).

833/1000 silver, hallmarked with the mark used by the goldsmiths' guild of Naples for silver objects of 833/1000 fineness or 10 ounces, 1832-1872, unidentified silversmith.
Literature:
Ref. Elio e Corrado Catello, Argenti napoletani dal XVI al XIX secolo, 1973, p. 108-116.
€ 200,00 / 300,00
Estimate
€ 150,00
Starting price
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Curiosities from European and Oriental Art
Silvers, Ivories, Corals, Icons and Wunderkammer

Palazzo Caetani Lovatelli, tue 25 February 2025
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