Antique Spanish reliquary with relics of saints and Holy Cross, circa 1850

Antique silver and gilded bronze reliquary with relics of the Holy Cross and saints, Spain circa 1850

The presented reliquary is an exquisite religious piece from Spain, dated circa 1850. This object is a testament to the devotion and sacred art of the time, crafted in silver (confirmed by acid test) and gilded bronze, showcasing mastery in its creation and a design of great detail and beauty.

The central piece of the reliquary houses a relic of the Holy Cross, making it an item of great spiritual and historical value. At the bottom of the reliquary, there are relics of several revered saints: Saint Francis Xavier (Francisci Xaverii), Saint Joseph (Joseph), Saint Mary (Beatae Mariae), Saint Ignatius of Loyola (Ignatii Confessoris), and Saint Francis of Assisi (Francisci Confessoris). These relics are arranged with delicate precision, highlighting their importance and sanctity.

The reliquary's design is impressive, with a structure that combines the sobriety of gilded bronze with the nobility of silver. The top part features decorative golden details with floral motifs and a central medallion of Jesus emphasizing the centrality of the Holy Cross. The lower support, equally elaborate, offers a stable and decorative base, with curves and scrolls enhancing its elegance.

Despite its age, the reliquary is in good condition, showing only the natural wear expected of a piece from its era. This object is not only a devotional artifact but also a collectible piece that can add a touch of history and spirituality to any collection or home decoration.

Don't miss the opportunity to acquire this religious art gem, which is not only a testament of faith but also a valuable investment for any serious collector!

Measurements: 30 cm x 12.5 cm x 10.5 cm (11.81 in x 4.92 in x 4.13 in).

History of the Reliquary:

The reliquary is a type of container used in the Catholic Church to hold and display relics, which are physical remains of saints or objects associated with them. Relics have been venerated by Christians since the early centuries of the Church. During the 19th century, the manufacture of reliquaries experienced a boom, especially in Catholic countries like Spain. Reliquaries not only served as objects of personal devotion but were also central elements in liturgical ceremonies and processions. Relics of the Holy Cross, in particular, have been among the most venerated in Christendom, being a powerful symbol of the Christian faith. This specific reliquary, with its multiple relics, would have been an object of great devotion, possibly used in an ecclesiastical context or in a private oratory of a devout family.