Rare 19th-century Paper Filigree Reliquary – Cardinal Pierre De Bérulle – 8 Relics Of Saints

Rare 19th-century paper filigree reliquary – Cardinal Pierre de Bérulle – 8 relics of saints.

Superb 19th-century reliquary, presented in an elegant oak frame, a refined testament to the monastic craftsmanship of that era.

In the center, a finely executed plaster medallion depicts the profile of Cardinal Pierre de Bérulle (1575-1629), founder of the Oratory of France in 1611 and created cardinal in 1627. The inscription "EMI. CARD. DE. BERVLLE. ORAT. FUND" expands to "Eminentissimus Cardinalis de Berulle Oratorii fundator," which can be translated as: "The Most Eminent Cardinal de Bérulle, founder of the Oratory."

Around this central medallion unfolds a remarkable paper filigree decoration, of great finesse, incorporating eight major relics, all of bone and of considerable size.

Transcriptions of the authentic documents:
S. Hilarii M. — Saint Hilary of Poitiers (4th century)
S. Mauri M. — Saint Maur (6th century)
S. Thomae A. — Saint Thomas the Apostle (1st century)
S. Libor EP. — Saint Liberius, Bishop (4th century)
S. Caroli B. — Saint Charles Borromeo (1538-1584)
S. Clementis — Saint Clement (1st century)
S. Fran de Pau — Saint Francis of Paola (1416-1507)
S. Fran Xav. — Saint Francis Xavier (1506-1552)

The relics are all of a good size: about 1 cm for that of Saint Charles Borromeo and about 2 cm for the others. Note that the relic of Saint Francis of Paola is a tooth, a particularly rare and sought-after item.

The back of the frame is carefully sealed and features four red wax episcopal seals, placed at the corners (seals to be identified), guaranteeing the authenticity and integrity of the reliquary.

Dimensions: 39 x 30.2 cm.
Condition: excellent condition, well preserved.

A rare and high-quality devotional piece, both for the richness of its composition and the importance of the relics it contains.

Price excludes shipping.

Police Register Ref: A027.

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