19th-century Papal Reliquary Containing A Lock Of Hair From Pope Pius IX (1792–1878) – Vatican

19th-century papal reliquary containing a lock of hair from Pope Pius IX (1792–1878) – Vatican

Exceptional 19th-century papal reliquary containing an authentic lock of hair from Pope Pius IX (1792–1878), a major figure in the history of the Catholic Church in the 19th century, who served as pope from 1846 to 1878 and was beatified in 2000 by Pope John Paul II.

This precious pontifical memento takes the form of an elegant gilded bronze reliquary, adorned with the Vatican’s papal coat of arms as well as fleurs-de-lis, symbols traditionally associated with papal dignity and authority. At its center is a remarkable porcelain cameo depicting Pope Pius IX in profile, rendered as a bust against a black jasper background, in the style of 19th-century commemorative portraits.

The reverse side of the reliquary reveals, beneath a protective cover, a substantial lock of hair preserved on red velvet. It is accompanied by an old handwritten label in Italian bearing the inscription: “Capelli di Sua Santità Pio IX”, meaning “Hair of His Holiness Pius IX.”

The relic is protected by a glass pane sealed with a perfectly preserved red wax episcopal seal. This seal belongs to Cardinal Mariano Rampolla del Tindaro (1843–1913), titular archbishop of Heraclea, Cardinal Secretary of State to Pope Leo XIII from 1887 to 1903 and one of the most influential clergymen of the late 19th century. Its presence adds an extra layer of historical significance to this object, attesting to its preservation and transmission within a high-ranking ecclesiastical context.

The personal relics of the popes—particularly reliquaries containing their hair—are highly sought after today, both for their historical value and for their intimate connection to the great figures of the papacy. This rare testament to devotion and papal remembrance is an exceptional piece for a collection of religious art, historical memorabilia, or ecclesiastical curiosities.

Dimensions: 6.8 x 9 cm

A rare 19th-century papal memento, combining fine craftsmanship, ecclesiastical provenance, and a direct testament to the memory of Pius IX.

Price excludes shipping costs

Police Registry Ref.: A064

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