"Osculatory Reliquary, 1630-1650, France Or Flanders, Sterling Silver & Crystal, True Cross ? "
Extremely rare osculatory reliquary or kiss of peace in sterling silver dating from the seventeenth century. According to its technical characteristics, style and decoration, it is to be attributed to a Flemish or French goldsmith around 1650. The object is still in perfect condition and contains a relic, probably dating from the same period. This relic is contained in a small cross formed of two cruciform plates in rock crystal. They are unfortunately split but are perfectly solidified by the gilt threads that bind them together. Also in the cartouche containing the relic is a red wax seal with the arms of an unidentified bishop which was probably attached to the relic at first. This form of rock crystal cross was traditionally used to contain - very small - parts of the True Cross but no element allows me to confirm it for this reliquary.