Antique Italian Tabernacle, Carved, Gilded And Painted, 1700's

An exceptional and extremely rare antique Italian tabernacle from the 18th century.
 
This magnificent ancient tabernacle that was discovered during my recent trip to Italy at the beginning of July 2020 is a truly remarkable find. It is an outstanding treasure hand carved, painted and water gilded [using real gold] with masterful craftsmanship of astonishing beauty and great artistic quality. The cabinet is in white and gold combination of colours that indicate a refined blend of sheer grace and opulence. The "door" is designed in the shape of the Shroud of Turin with an exceptional portrayal of Christ above which is a fantastic carving - also denoting to Jesus - with a crown of thorns. Ornate gilded borders are majestic with two glorious lion's paws holding the entire cabinet [from the front]. The tabernacle originates from Florence and it was most probably created during the early 1700's or even earlier. It measures about 51 x 51 x 31 cm or approximately 20 x 20 x 12.2 inches and it is in lovely antique condition - considering its impressive age - with signs of ageing that in my opinion only brings forward its true beauty and splendour today. The interior of it is covered in golden yellow silk. It seams that the white paint was refreshed at some later stage and there is some flaking of the paint on the right side of the Christ's portrait. However this superb antique masterpiece speaks volumes about former centuries filled with profound meaning and history. It is exactly as I discovered it. For the full condition please refer to the images!
 
This is a spellbinding antique treasure for a stylish interior, classical or contemporary!