RARE SPANISH COLONIAL SILVER PELICAN-FORM BOOKSTAND
late 18th/early 19th c., prob. Peru or Alto Peru (Bolivia), a sacramentary lectern
the standing bird with out-swept wings, head bent to heart; book rest attached to back, 19"tall incl. the 11" square base supported by four angelic cherubs, ball feet, wing span 19"; approx. 148 troy oz.
The pelican pierces its heart in to feed its blood to its young. In Christian art this symbolizes Christ sacrificing himself for man. Sacramentary lecterns were placed on the altar during a Eucharist celebration holding the book containing the ritual words of the sacrifice of Christ's body and blood. A lectern of this quality would most likely been used in a cathedral or very wealthy church.
From the extensive collection of a Connecticut gentleman who lived in Latin America for many years. This is the third installment of this collection to be sold by CRN Auctions.
Estimate: $10,000 - $15,000
Realized: $8,000 - Excluding Buyer's Premium
Absence of a condition statement does not imply the lot is in perfect condition, free from flaws, restoration, or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email or telephone to our gallery. Any condition statement given either verbally or written is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. CRN bears no responsibility for error or omission. All items are sold as is. All sales are final.
Lot 101 : RARE SPANISH COLONIAL SILVER PELICAN-FORM BOOKSTAND
Click on image to enlarge, then click on right or left side of image to view slideshow.