Double Reliquary Bust – Late 17th Century

Our reliquary, carved in the round, beautifully polychromed and gilded, is imposing, to say the least.
In addition to its age and the finesse of its craftsmanship, it presents a configuration that is, if not unique, extremely rare: the combination of a double bust side by side.
United for eternity, they are Saint Sebastian and Saint Fabian, strikingly expressive and solemn.
Saint Fabian, pope and martyr whose palm he bears, was a contemporary of Sebastian. Both died persecuted during the great persecution of Diocletian.
The first in 288 and the second in 250.

The attribute of the palm, and the geographical and temporal proximity, suggest that this is indeed Saint Fabian. Both are celebrated on the same day, January 20.

Beneath the busts, two reliquary niches are inserted at the level of the terrace, in the middle of which is a coat of arms likely representing the donor of this exceptional piece.
An Italian work from the Naples region, dating from the late 17th century.
The dimensions are substantial, measuring 75 cm high, 99 cm long, and 39 cm deep.
Beautiful condition and restorations.
Reference 498