Renaissance Paternoster, Woman's Ornate Prayer Beads retailer with Tassel & Cross

This renaissance-style Paternoster reflects the designs in the Renaissance era, when Paternosters were quite elaborate and often carried or worn as part of a complete "outfit". This early version of the rosary was used for more than prayer - it also showed the status or wealth of the owner.

A single-decade linear Paternoster like this would have been owned by a Lady of the Court, a noble-woman or someone in a high retailer position in society. It would be held in the hands, or perhaps fastened to a gown with a rosary brooch, or folded over a belt.

The beads are larger, as was common then. The decade of 10 Ave beads are 10mm lampwork glass, with a design of pink roses & silver foil under clear faceted glass. At each end of the Paternoster is a large rose pink Swarovski pearl (12mm round), and an ornately pierced pewter filigree bead.

The rosary is strung on pink cord, with a silver silky tassel at one end and a richly detailed silver floral cross at the other (the cross has a hollow back).

A lovely story about why Paternosters commonly included tassels, is that they were for wiping the tears of the faithful as they prayed - tears of remorse, gratitude and joy.

Length: 45cm / 17.75 inches
Cross: 8cm / 3.1 inches tall
Tassel: 9cm / 3.5 inches long.

A lovely paternoster for prayerful use, which would make a unique gift. It comes in a handmade (by me) rosary pouch to store it in, and will be attractively packaged.

See more here: https://etsy.me/2Hm6zvS
Items with Memento Mori: https://etsy.me/33az6LT

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