Large Antique Mother of Pearl & Silver Rosary with Miraculous Medallion featuring Pope Pius IX and The Virgin Mary

This is a beautiful late Victorian mother of pearl and silver Rosary measuring over 24 inches in length (see photo). In addition to the Rosary, a Miraculous Medal has been added featuring Pope Pius IX on the reverse. Pope Pius IX was head of the Catholic Church from 1846 until his death in 1878. His pontificate lasted nearly 32 years making it the longest papal reign in history.

The mother of pearl beads have a beautiful translucent sheen. In Catholic art, mother of pearls sheen symbolises the purity and softness of Mary making it a favoured material for Rosaries. Historically it has also been seen as a symbol of protection, maternal care and well being, believed to shield the wearer and offer spiritual comfort.

The Miraculous Medal featuring Mary, symbolises her immaculate conception. The design originates from Mary's apparition to St. Catherine Laboure, where she promised graces to those of faith who wear it. Pope Pius IX was the Pope who officially defines the dogma of the immaculate conception in 1854.