An exquisite and rare cross-cultural relic from the late 19th century. This antique devotional beaded micro-memento (cadres en perles de rocaille) merges Austrian sacred iconography with traditional French folk craftsmanship. Purchased in France, the piece features a vibrant lithographic Andachtsbildchen (holy card) dedicated to St. Maria Drei Eichen (St. Mary of the Three Oaks). The illustration beautifully depicts the Pietà set within the crown of an oak tree, resting above the historic twin-towered pilgrimage basilica in Lower Austria.
The miniature print is safely preserved behind its original glass pane. It is dramatically encased in an intricate, handmade diamond-shaped frame (cadre en perles de rocaille) meticulously crafted from alternating sky-blue and milk-white glass seed beads woven onto a wire structural base. The back is mounted against an authentic fragment of handwritten 19th-century French notary vellum text, serving as a gorgeous, visually rich backdrop. Equipped with its original dark hanging loop at the top apex.
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Era: Circa 1880–1900
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Origin: Purchased in France (Frame/Assembly: French; Central Print: Austrian)
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Materials: Glass seed beads, wire framework, antique lithograph paper, glass, antique French document backing
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Condition: Antique condition. The beadwork structure remains remarkably intact and secure, showcasing a beautiful patina on the structural components.
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