Very Rare Eastern Christian Finger-shaped Reliquary – 17th/18th Century

Very rare Eastern Christian finger-shaped reliquary – 17th/18th century

Rare tubular reliquary shaped in the shape of a human finger, intended to contain a phalanx or a bone from a saint's finger. Eastern Christian goldsmith work (Armenia, Georgia, or the Levant), datable to the late 17th or 18th century.

Description Gilded metal body, entirely decorated with alternating rows of turquoise and garnet cabochons (or ancient colored glass), individually set on a background of spirally engraved gold leaf.

Hinged lid on the upper part, blackened by time, once allowing the relic to be displayed in ritual settings.

Old internal traces (pitch or wax) testify to its liturgical use. A rare and highly sought-after piece, testifying to the aesthetic exchanges between Byzantine, Armenian, and Eastern traditions.

Dimensions: length 7 cm – diameter approx. 1 cm

Condition:

Wear and tear, small stone gaps, fragile hinge.

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.