16th Century - Venice - Reliquary Case In Richly Carved And Gilded Wood

Exceptional reliquary case in richly carved and gilded wood, of Venetian manufacture around the mid-16th century. Resting on 4 spherical feet, the case retains its original fine blown glass. The front is enriched with two plant motifs that open towards the center of the opening protected by the glass. All around there are volutes and intertwined motifs. On the two side walls there are two splendidly gilded star motifs in relief. The back is simple, in indigo lacquer. Special mention for the lid, made with carvings in five orders: the first four alternate flounces and intertwined motifs, while a rich cymatium stands out on the top. Inside there is a probable fragment of an iliac bone, deducible from the ancient writings on the fragment, which cite the same bone and some muscles connected to it. My idea is that it is a fragment of a skeleton used in the laboratory for anatomical study purposes, then inserted inside this fascinating reliquary. The seals are broken, but curiously the reliquary cannot be opened. Surely the fragment was later inserted inside this former reliquary, associating the rich manufacturing of the container with the macabre content, obtaining an object worthy of the most eclectic, rich and particular cabinet of wonders. The object is in good condition, with a slight fall on the front and a few small retouches. Note the exceptional gilding. Dim. cm 22 x 11 x 17.5H