"Reliquary Of The Holy Cross + 6 Relics Of Saints"
Antique reliquary containing a relic of the Holy Cross of Christ and 6 relics of Saints. - France - 19th century Description This antique reliquary is a circular reliquary medallion, probably made of brass or gilded bronze, with a glass pane protecting the interior. It appears to date from the 19th century and is decorated with a gilded filigree decoration, highlighting several relics arranged in the shape of a cross. The red velvet background serves as a case for the relics, which are carefully labeled with handwritten strips of paper. In the center, we can see a relic of the Holy Cross of Christ, emphasizing the spiritual value of this sacred object. According to the inscriptions visible on the labels, here is the possible interpretation of the names of the saints: S. Agatha VM→ Saint Agatha, virgin and martyr (d. 3rd century) S. Blasii EM→ Saint Blaise, bishop and martyr (d. 4th century) S. Ludovici→ Probably Saint Louis of France (Saint Louis, King of France, d. 1270) B. Francisci → Probably Saint Francis of Assisi (d. 1226) S. Bonifacii→ Saint Boniface, bishop and martyr (d. 754) B. Thomae → Probably Saint Thomas Aquinas (d. 1274) Condition This reliquary was probably intended to be worn or kept in a place of prayer. It is in good condition despite a patina of time, which gives it an authentic appearance.