Large Baroque Reliquary Frame - Martyrs' Relics - 19th Century

Large baroque reliquary frame with gilded background containing several relics of Christian martyrs - 19th century - Italy or Austria Rare and imposing baroque reliquary frame containing multiple relics (7) of holy martyrs enshrined in a monastic-type relief decoration, typical of 19th-century Italian or Austrian convents. Description: The background is covered with gilded embossed fabric, and the relics are decorated with twisted silver threads, small bouquets of pearls, rolled paper and artificial flowers. Each relic is accompanied by a handwritten titulus (identification label). The whole is protected by an old glass pane in a painted wooden frame. The central scene represents a religious painting depicting the Death of the Virgin or the Dormition of Mary, surrounded by sacred figures, probably including Christ and apostles. Relics identifiable on the tituli: S. Desiderij M. – Saint Désiré, martyr - S. Crescentij M. – Saint Crescent, martyr (may refer to Crescentius, a young Roman martyr of the 4th century) - S. Petri M. – Saint Peter, martyr - S. Crescent M. (another relic of Crescentius?) - S. Firmi and RM – Saints Firmus and Rusticus, martyrs - SPXPM – Probable reading: Sanctus Pius X, Pontifex Maximus (but uncertain, as he was not a martyr). This could be an abbreviation for a less common formula or saint. - St. Faustin martyr. Dimensions: 46 cm x 38.5 cm x 6.5 cm deep Condition: Good general condition, wear from use, solid structure, decoration preserved despite natural aging This type of reliquary is a typical example of popular devotional art, made by cloistered nuns. These frames were used in private oratories, sometimes in sacristies or secondary chapels. The metal filigree work, the silk threads, the floral and symbolic composition, as well as the richness of the saints represented make it a rare and highly decorative liturgical object.