Wrought Iron Nail From The Cross - 19th Century Reliquary

Nail of the Cross, made of forged metal, with a ribbon sealed in red wax. Beautiful surface patina. Replica of the relic, circa 19th century.
Length: 11.5 cm. Numerous replicas of this highly coveted nail were made over the centuries.
A bit of history: According to legend, Saint Helena (mother of Emperor Constantine) had the site of Calvary in Jerusalem excavated and miraculously discovered the relics of the Passion of Christ on May 3, 326 (#1). In 549, the veneration of the Nails of the Passion was recognized by the Church (#2). The earliest testimony we have of the relic of the Nails appears to be that of Saint Jerome (340-420). Many relics then belonged to famous figures as well as pilgrims over the centuries (#3), and were kept in numerous holy places. Historical texts relate that Philip V of France (1291-1322) was cured of quartan fever by touching the Holy Nail. ________
Bibliography: #1 - ED Hunt, “Constantine and Jerusalem,” The Journal of Ecclesiastical History, vol. 48, no. 3, July 1997, p. 415 #2 - Frolow A., 30. See Migne, PL, LXVII, col. 1229. #3 - https://prosamor.wixsite.com/reliquesdelapassion/la-relique-des-clous#_ftn1