Passionist Reliquary - 19th Century

Here is an unusual relic, in a rare form.
A contact relicis, in fact, encased in terracotta. On the edge of theterracotta, which is shaped like a flat cake, the inscription reads “EX DOMO SS MARTYRIUM JOANNESET PAVLI IN M.CAELIO,” meaning: from the house of the martyrdom of SaintsJohn and Paul on the Caelian Hill. 
On the slopes of Mount Caelius, below the Basilica of Saints Johnand Paul, lies an archaeological complex known as the site where John andPaul lived, suffered martyrdom, and were buried. It was from this site thatthis relic was recovered.

A clearly identifiable wax seal of the Congregation ofthe Passion of Jesus Christ authenticates this beautiful piece. The basilica is, in fact,administered by this Congregation and houses, among other things, the tomb of itsfounder, Paul of the Cross.
9 cm in diameter
Shows signs of use
Ref 888b