This matching treasure is of immense beauty, made by Jean Crochet in Paris. It is crafted of gilded silver with translucent enamels, dating from 1598-1599. A new acquisition, it was recently acquired for the Louvre by a circle of patrons who collect art objects.
This chalice resembles others made at the same time, while it appears even more beautiful. The sun rays almost predict the Baroque, bringing to mind the Jesuit design of the holy name of Jesus sun burst monogram motif in Rome (seen at the church of the Most Holy Name of Jesus, or the Gesù).
It goes without saying, obviously we prefer to see this sort of object still in active service at the altar. Still, it is an experience to see it up close under proper lighting. The design of the paten is particularly interesting.
One can only imagine the Latin Quarter of Paris in those years with generations of thriving shops crafting ecclesiastical art that was so magnificent it is almost hard to believe and to think that some of these treasures have escaped so much and have lasted through the tempest of time.
God bless and reward our ancestors in the Faith and may heaven be their blessed reward. The artisans of old still teach us from the grave: Omnis honor et gloria!
