Silver Pectoral Reliquary Cross - Early 16th Century - Scenes Of Christ, Renaissance Rarity

Exceptional pectoral reliquary cross dating from the early 16th century, remarkable testimony to early Renaissance goldsmithing. Made of solid silver, partially vermeiled, this piece is distinguished by the finesse of its workmanship and the richness of its iconography.

Both sides of the cross present, in relief on a chased background, two major episodes from the life of Christ.
The first side features a Crucifixion scene: the nimbed Christ is depicted as Christus patiens, wearing a short perizonium with a wide bow. At the top, a parchment-shaped cartel bearing the inscription "INRI" (Iesus Nazarenus Rex Iudaeorum) appears. At its feet, the skull and crossbones evoke Mount Golgotha.
The other side, more rarely depicted, shows Christ's Baptism in the Jordan River. Christ, standing and nimbed, is dressed simply in a knotted cloth, while the Holy Spirit descends from heaven in the form of a dove. The figures are also treated in relief on a chased background.

The reliquary opens thanks to a removable screw at the top, also acting as a loop for the chain. A hinge, located at the base, allows the two valves to open; although broken, it in no way alters the proper functioning of the object, which can still be worn without risk.

The reliquary has been restored to its original condition.

Now empty, this reliquary was originally intended to contain a relic of great importance, possibly a fragment of the Holy Cross, given the quality and luxury of its construction.

Silver reliquary crosses on the market are mostly dated to the 18th century; 16th-century examples, such as this one, are extremely rare.

Dimensions:
Height: 6.6 cm
Width: 3.6 cm
Weight: 69 g

A collector's item of great historical and artistic interest, illustrating refined craftsmanship and iconography rich in meaning.

Price without shipping costs

Police Register Ref: A030

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