The author is master I.I.K.
Details about materials and dimensions:

  • Material: silver, hammered, cast, chased, gilded, stones
  • Height: 71.5 cm
  • Width: 33.5 cm
  • Base dimensions: 28 x 19.6 cm

Description of the Monstrance

This richly crafted monstrance features an oval, convex base with a dynamic outline, adorned with pronounced volutes, acanthus leaves, and shells. These decorative elements converge at the front and back into a cartouche filled with small flowers arranged in diagonal mesh fields.

The base transitions into a profiled conical stem, reinforced by a strong nodus and an additional decorative element. At the center of the setting is a quatrefoil opening for the host, framed by massive, spatially protruding volutes covered in foliage and rocaille ornamentation.

Sculptural Elements

Embedded within the frame are four fully sculpted putti, along with representations of God the Father, a dove (symbolizing the Holy Spirit), and the Lamb of God. Two airborne putti hold cornucopias filled with flowers, while the other two, seated on volutes, support a floral garland.

Upper Section

The top of the monstrance is dominated by a monumental sculpture of God the Father, seated before a Rococo cartouche and holding a terrestrial globe represented by a large blue glass stone. The edge of the custodia is adorned with a row of small transparent stones, while the wider rim, shaped from shell-like volutes, contains two larger red and blue stones. The lunula is also sprinkled with colorful stones.

A frame of cut rays complements the ornate upper section, enhancing the overall visual impact.

Hallmark and Historical Context

A small silver hallmark is stamped on the edge of the base, indicating that the piece originates from Carniola, dating to 1806–1807.

Works by the same Viennese goldsmith include chalices from 1754, located in the Chapter Church of St. Nicholas in Novo Mesto and in the Ljubljana Cathedral.

Archival References

The monstrance is mentioned in the Parish Chronicle, vol. 2, p. 69 (1755): Die prächtige Monstranz. It is also referenced in inventories spanning 1777 to 1850.

In the 1785 inventory, it is described as silver and gilded, decorated with figures and Bohemian stones, made of 13-lot silver, and weighing 6 pounds. In 1803, its value was recorded at 238 guilders and 57 kreuzers.

Bibliography

  • Parish Chronicle, Parish of St. James, Ljubljana, p. 69
  • Parish Archives Ljubljana, St. James, Documents, Inventories fasc. 1769–1850, Archdiocesan Archive Ljubljana
  • V. Steska: Old Church Vessels in Carniola, IMDK XVI, 1906, p. 21

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