Copper Ampoule-reliquary From The Limousin Workshops, 13th Century - Joseph Laissus Collection

Exceptional repoussé and formerly champlevé copper ampoule from the Limousin workshops of the 13th century, retaining a remarkable presence despite the alterations of time.

In the center of the composition is a heraldic shield adorned with four horizontal stripes, probably the family coat of arms. The whole is surrounded by a finely-worked plant decoration, now partially preserved, testifying to the quality of execution of enamel and copper production in medieval Limousin.

In the upper part of the composition, there is an ornamental panel.

In the upper part, two attachment rings clearly indicate that the object was intended for hanging. On the reverse, a small hole suggests a reliquary function: it's likely that the ampulla contained a holy relic, possibly that of the family's patron saint associated with the coat of arms.

At the same time, the ampulla's function as a reliquary is clear.

This object is extremely rare: to my knowledge, only two examples are known. The other, of slightly smaller dimensions, is kept at the Musée du Louvre (Inv. OA 11818) and is currently on display in room 503, Richelieu wing, level 1.

The example presented comes from the collection of Joseph Laissus. It still retains its original handwritten label, mentioning:
"Ampoule? Perhaps pilgrim? Primitively fired... ? Limousin, France, 13th century, J. Laissus collection."

Joseph Laissus, engineer at the Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers, doctor at the University of Paris, director and founder of the École Technique Supérieure du Laboratoire, was also a passionate collector of artistic and scientific curiosities. His son, Yves Laissus, archivist paleographer and director of the Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle library, described him as a curious spirit, collecting "rare and unusual objects for the pleasure of their discoveries and historical evocations."

The bulb shows a beautiful excavation patina, a good overall state of preservation despite a few old misses and perforations.

Very fine and rare testimony to the craftsmanship of Limousin enamels and medieval devotional objects, at the crossroads of heraldry and reliquary.

Price without shipping costs

Ref. Police Register: A077

Professional antique dealer - Guarantee & buying serenity

As a professional antique dealer, I am committed to offering only authentic, carefully selected and legally marketable objects. Each piece is chosen for its historical, aesthetic or collector's interest, and is subject to rigorous verification of its origin.

Invoicing and traceability. Each purchase is accompanied by a detailed invoice and a certificate of authenticity, guaranteeing the provenance of the object and ensuring complete transparency.

Legal compliance. All objects comply with French and European legislation in force. Any archaeological objects are offered in compliance with the French Heritage Code (articles L.542-1 et seq.). Objects that may fall under specific regulations (cultural, antique, special materials) are sold within a strictly legal framework.

International buyers.Buyers outside France are invited to check the regulations applicable in their country concerning the import of cultural or antique goods.

Right of withdrawal.In accordance with the law (articleL.221-18 of the Code de la consommation), you have a period of 14 days after receipt to make a return. Return shipping costs are at the buyer's expense. The item must be returned in its original condition.

Commitment to quality. Buying from a professional means security, transparency and reliability. I remain at your disposal for any further questions you may have before purchasing.