Reliquary Of Saint Helena And Ten Virgin Martyrs, Rome, Circa 1820

Multiple reliquary in gilt silver, containing ten relics of holy virgins and martyrs around Saint Helena, Rome circa 1820, episcopal seal intact.

Description

Authentic oval reliquary in silver-plated brass, with upper bail, containing a set of ten relics of holy virgins and martyrs, arranged in a floral composition on a crimson silk background and decorated with gilt and turquoise lacquered paperolles.

Under beveled crystal glass, the relics are identified by their Latin manuscript papers and arranged around a central medallion dedicated to Saint Helena, Empress, mother of Constantine and discoverer of the True Cross.
The identified relics are:
1. S. Helenae Imperatricis – Saint Helena, Empress.
2. S. Ursuli et Soc. M. – Saint Ursula and her fellow martyrs.
3. S. Theresiae V. – Saint Teresa, virgin (probably Teresa of Avila).
4. S. Beatricis VM – Saint Beatrice, virgin and martyr.
5. S. Emerentianae VM – Saint Emerentian, virgin and martyr.
6. S. Iustellae VM – Saint Justelle, virgin and martyr.
7. S. Elisabethae V. – Saint Elizabeth, virgin.
8. S. Rosae VM – Saint Rose, virgin and martyr.
9. S. Theclae VM – Saint Thecla, virgin and martyr.
10. S. Josephae VM – Saint Joseph, virgin and martyr.

On the reverse, the closing plate is sealed with an intact episcopal seal in red wax, crossed by original purple silk threads, attesting to the integrity and ecclesiastical authenticity of the reliquary.

The seal bears the oval coat of arms of a prelate, characteristic of Roman productions from the first half of the 19th century.

Dimensions: Height (with bail): 8.7 cm

Condition:

Very good state of preservation. Glass intact, internal decoration complete and luminous, wax seal unbroken.
Natural patina of the metal.

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.