LIMOGES, 13TH CENTURY

Details

A parcel-gilt enamel oil casket
LIMOGES, 13TH CENTURY
The square spreading hinged lid surmounted by a crucifix finial and applied with fantastical beasts to the angles decorated overall with pinched oval panels depicting half-length figures of angels set within foliate scrolls
16 cm. high

Special notice

On occasion, Christie's has a direct financial interest in lots consigned for sale which may include guaranteeing a minimum price or making an advance to the consignor that is secured solely by consigned property. This is such a lot. This indicates both in cases where Christie's holds the financial interest on its own, and in cases where Christie's has financed all or a part of such interest through a third party. Such third parties generally benefit financially if a guaranteed lot is sold successfully and may incur a loss if the sale is not successful. Christie’s charges a premium to the buyer on the Hammer Price of each lot sold at the following rates: 29.75% of the Hammer Price of each lot up to and including €5,000, plus 23.8% of the Hammer Price between €5,001 and €400,000, plus 14.28% of any amount in excess of €400,001. Buyer’s premium is calculated on the basis of each lot individually.

Sale room notice

Please note that this oil casket is illustrated on page 79 of the printed catalogue and is incorrectly numbered as lot 146.

Lot Essay

Comparative Literature:
E. Rupin, L'Oeuvre de Limoges, Paris, 1890, pp. 443-446.
M-M Gauthier, Catalogue International de l'Oeuvre de Limoges, I, Paris, 1987, no. 167, p. 158, pl. CLIX, figs. 556-557.

The present square casket is one of a small number of known examples intended to contain holy oils used in a variety of different liturgical rituals including baptisms, and the consecration of holy objects and altars. Despite the inevitable minor wear to the gilding, and very minor losses to the enamel, it is in a remarkable state of preservation.

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