Reliquary Cross Containing 9 Relics Including A Fragment Of The Holy Cross – 19th Century –

Reliquary cross in gilded bronze containing 9 relics including a fragment of the Holy Cross – 19th century – France

Authentic opening reliquary cross of missionary or pectoral type, in gilded bronze and blackened wood, containing an exceptional set of 9 relics of saints, including a central fragment of the True Cross of Christ (first class relic).

Description

The cross opens from below to reveal a cavity lined with red fabric, decorated with paperolles, golden threads and handwritten cartouches identifying the saints represented.

Central relic: SS. C. — Sanctae Crucis: Fragment of the wood of the Holy Cross, placed in a cross, enshrined in the center.

Other relics identified by their tituli:
1. S. Petri Ap. – Saint Peter the Apostle
2. S. Pauli Ap. – Saint Paul the Apostle
3. S. Joseph Sp. VM – Saint Joseph, spouse of the Virgin
4. B. Vianney – Blessed Jean-Marie Vianney, Curé of Ars (canonized in 1925, which allows this reliquary to be dated before this date)
5. St. Franc. – St. Francis (probably of Assisi)
6. St. Ant. – St. Anthony of Padua
7. St. Roch – St. Roch of Montpellier
8. St. Cath. – St. Catherine (probably of Alexandria)

The relics are presented in hand-made floral medallions, each fragment set on a red velvet background.

Structure: gilt bronze mission cross, decorated with a cast Christ in glory (brass or bronze), INRI added, blackened wood core. Original screw closure, discreet.

Dating: between 1860 and 1890 (pre-canonization of J.-M. Vianney)
Probable origin: France (parish context or regular clergy)
Dimensions: 11 cm x 5 cm

Condition:

Very good general condition, some wear to the interior decoration; well preserved.

In accordance with canon law (can. 1190 §1), this sale concerns only the reliquary as an object of sacred art.
The relics it contains are not the object of the transaction, but are included free of charge for their historical and cultural value.

Do not hesitate to contact me for any additional information or request for additional photos concerning the objects offered for sale.