Late 19th Century French M.R Walnut Composite Holy Water Crucifix Wall Hanging

Late 19th Century French M.R Walnut Composite Holy Water Crucifix Wall Hanging (Bénitier de chevet) In 19th-century France, Catholic households would often hang holy water fonts by their bedsides or near the entrance, symbolizing their faith and serving as a vessel for daily prayers and blessings. This piece, dating from approximately 1870–1890, during the late Napoleonic III period to the early Third Republic, is a French domestic holy water crucifix. It embodies the Historicist and Neo-Rococo revival styles, exuding a dignified and elegant aura. | Craftsmanship and Details | ・Walnut base, featuring warm, deep century-old wood grain and elegant trim. ・Lined with dark fabric to accentuate the three-dimensional layering of the golden Christ figure. ・The Corpus, INRI plaque, corner ornaments, and holy water basin are all crafted using French Régule Doré casting techniques. ・The back retains the "M.R PARIS" Parisian workshop mark and the original hanging loop. ・The gold layer exhibits natural wear from age, revealing the silvery-gray base metal, creating a charming patina. ・Natural marks from long-term use are visible inside the holy water basin, conveying a rich sense of history. | Dimensions | Length 34.7 cm × Width 20 cm (A rare medium-to-large size, offering a significant presence) | Era | Circa 1870–1890 | Origin | Paris, France The piece is in complete condition, with the original hanging loop on the back still secure and the Parisian workshop mark visible. As an antique that has weathered over a century, it naturally bears signs of normal use. Please consider this before purchasing.