Reliquary Bust Of A Roman Saint - Late 17th Century

Many Roman soldiers converted to Christianity. Whether they entered the legion by vocation, obligation, or pursuit of glory, all left with only one weapon: Faith. Saint Donatus, Saint Flavius, Saint Expeditus, Saint Martin of Tours, Saint Longinus, and Saint Hippolytus are magnificent examples. Here, in this important reliquary, without the particular attributes that traditionally characterize each saint, and without a specific pose, it is difficult to identify the person being honored. Our man, with his drawn face, is very expressive. This massive reliquary bust is made of carved, polychrome, and gilded wood. It is of considerable size, measuring 80 cm high, 53 cm wide, and 42 cm deep.
At its base, a seal covers the small reliquary niche. This red wax seal bears the arms of a cardinal depicting a rearing horse crowned with three stars; the relic may have been removed. It is an Italian work from the late 17th century.
Note some minor damage, cracks, and retouching of the gilding. Reference 207