Censer of the 17th-18th century

Censer of the 17th-18th century.
Silver.
With hallmarks on one side, possibly from the Villa de Madrid.
Exhibits wear consistent with age and use.
Weight: 900 g.
Measurements: 27 x 11 x 11 cm; 70 cm (total with chain).

As sumptuary pieces that testify the economic prestige of confraternities and cathedrals, the liturgical censers are one of the best examples of the sacred goldsmithery of the XVII-XVIII centuries. The present example, from the late baroque period, stands out for its globular and bulky structure. The piece is enriched with a delicate ornamentation of vegetal bands and scrolls, engraved and chiseled with precision in the cup and the circular foot. The upper body or chimney stands out, whose functional fretwork has been masterfully integrated into the design to allow a constant and rhythmic diffusion of the incense.

The silver has a natural dark patina that highlights the reliefs and the silversmith's handwork. The curved shapes and the balance of the piece denote careful craftsmanship.