Silver Pendant With A Needlework Picture Of Saint Francis. Spanish, 18th Century

A devotional silver pendant with a needlework picture of the missionary Saint Francis Xavier.

Spanish, early 18th century.

Measures 6.6 x 5 x 1.6cm.

The needlework set behind glass is composed of fine silk and gold threads and depicts the 3/4 facing bust of Saint Francis Xavier. The other side of the pendant which is also glazed contains a wax Agnus Dei. The sides of the pendant are composed of a silver band with encompassing rope twist decoration and a simple silver bail at the top. 

The wax Agnus Dei is an oval tablet made from the paschal candle which was traditionally blessed by the Pope at Easter. After use in the Easter ceremonies, the remaining wax from the candle was made into small tablets which were impressed with the design of the Lamb of God (Agnus Dei) on one side, and the name and titles of the pope who had blessed it on the other.