Gilded Bronze Reliquary – Relic Of Saint Philip Neri – “ex Indumentis” Relic

Last quarter of the 19th century – Circa 1870–1890 Italy Small reliquary for private devotion, made of finely cast and then gilded bronze, in a Rococo style inspired by the 18th century. A baroque shell adorns the top of the mount, while ribbed scrolls frame the display case. Beneath domed glass rests a relic of Saint Philip Neri, in the nature of an ex indumentis (fragment of clothing), set on a wine-colored textile background, and decorated with two pearly beads. The handwritten Latin label reads: Ex Veste S. Philippi Nerii. The reverse is sealed with an intact red ecclesiastical wax seal affixed to a crimson cloth. The original screw lid, also gilded, ensures the reliquary's secure closure and testifies to its perfect preservation. An object of personal piety, this reliquary was intended for private devotion. It could be hung indoors, integrated into an oratory, or taken on pilgrimages. Its refined ornamentation and precious relic illustrate the Catholic fervor in post-Tridentine Italy of the 19th century. Hagiographic note: Saint Philip Neri (1515–1595), nicknamed "the Apostle of Rome," is the founder of the Congregation of the Oratory. A radiant figure of the spiritual renewal of the 16th century, he combined mystical fervor with disarming humor. He attracted many young people, preaching the joyful love of God, far from any dogmatic austerity. A lover of humility, Philip refused honors, practiced self-mockery, and taught joy as the driving force of holiness. Canonized in 1622, he remains one of the most endearing and spiritually accessible saints in the Catholic tradition. Dimensions: – Height: 11 cm Condition: Very good overall condition. Well-preserved gilding, intact display case, complete relic, original seal unaltered. Delivery exclusively via DHL, with secure packaging, tracking and insurance.