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foliage, the lid surmounted with a Cross. Hallmarked in Dublin
. 1882. Maker's name John Donegan. Wt: 588.3grms. {24cm H
X 11.5cm Dia }.
Two exceptionally rare Irish gold ciboriums, discovered at the Convent of Mercy in Catherine Street, Newry, have been authenticated as significant examples of 19th-century Irish ecclesiastical art. The pieces are now set to go under the hammer later this month with individual estimates of €30,000 to €40,000.
Both ciboriums were made by renowned Dublin goldsmith John Donegan and are hallmarked in Dublin, dating from 1881 and 1882. Crafted in 22-carat gold and decorated with intricate foliate ornamentation, each piece is surmounted by a cross.
One of the ciboriums contains an insert set with nine old-cut diamonds and three moissanites, adding further weight to what experts have already described as unique Irish examples.
The discovery at the convent is said to offer an important insight into Ireland's religious and artistic heritage during the late 19th century.
cut Victorian diamonds approx.1 carat each & three
moissanites approx. 1 carat each, decorated with foliage, the
lid surmounted with a Cross. Hallmarked in Dublin. 1881.
Maker's name John Donegan. Wt: 592.4grms. {23cm H X
11.5cm Dia }.
The two pieces will be offered for sale by Victor Mee Auctions as part of The Sisters of Mercy Convent Sale, which takes place live online over three days on Tuesday 9 June, Wednesday 10 June and Thursday 11 June.
The ciboriums will appear as lots 852 and 861.
Further details and images are available on request.
See https://www.victormeeauctions.ie for the catalogue
