Antique French Devotional Shadow Box with Sacred Heart Ex Votos and Marian Keepsakes

A rare and deeply personal antique French devotional shadow box filled with an eclectic collection of religious keepsakes, ex-votos, Sacred Heart emblems, silkwork tokens, scapular fragments, and small devotional ornaments.

Set against a rich crimson velvet-style backing and housed in an aged gilded wooden frame, the piece has the feel of a small private altar or treasured family devotional display. The contents appear to date from the late 19th to early 20th century and include embroidered Sacred Hearts, tiny religious images, ribbonwork, metallic thread embroidery, and hand crafted devotional pieces.

Several elements feature Sacred Heart imagery, while others show Marian devotional themes and traditional Catholic symbolism. Particularly charming are the small silk heart ornament with delicate wirework detailing and the hand-decorated ex-voto panels with metallic embroidery and ribbon trim.

The warm gilt frame works beautifully with the deep red background, giving the piece a rich and striking appearance. A very unusual and personal devotional display, full of character and handcrafted detail.

Condition is good antique condition overall with age-related wear consistent with age and use. There is some gentle fading, fraying, foxing, and wear to the delicate fabric and paper elements, all in keeping with the age and fragile nature of the piece. The frame also shows age and wear to the gilt finish.

It measures approximately 19.25"H x 10.25"W (49 x 26 cm) and weighs 2lb 2oz (980 grams).

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