Enamelled gold slide set with a coral cameo of Christ. French, 17th century.

Enamelled gold slide set with a coral cameo of Christ. French, 17th century.
Mid 17th century, the coral cameo of Christ is Sicilian and dates to the first half of the 17th century. The centre of the slide features a coral cameo carved with the head of Christ, most likely a souvenir of a pilgrim who had travelled to Southern Italy. The coral head of Christ is set upon a billowing white enamel veil of Saint Veronica, the crucifix behind. The crucifix is slightly raised and on the most part undecorated, aside from the engraved edges creating a sense of perspective. The background decorated in rich, royal blue enamel. The reverse of the slide is decorated with black floral swags encircling a rose on a turquoise enamel ground. Some chipping and wear to the enamel and the chin of Christ but without restoration and all commensurate with its age. Measures: 4.3 x 3.3 cm.