Important Louis XIV Gilt Bronze Stoup

Important and exceptional holy water font from the Louis XIV period, entirely made of chased and gilded bronze. The crucifix is presented on a brown velvet background, with at its foot a representation of Golgotha and Jerusalem in gilded bronze. The frame, also in gilded bronze, consists of a richly decorated baguette in the Bérain style. The stoup itself is decorated with a cherub, shell and foliage. The set is affixed to an original oak board, with all its period screws. On both sides of the frame, small threaded holes may suggest that it had small screwed ornaments (perhaps scrolls...?), now missing. The set is remarkable for its size, the quality of execution, the original mercury gilding in very good condition. Dimensions: 53cm X 28cm