Reliquary – Reliquary Of The True Cross Of Our Lord Jesus Christ – Ex Ligno Crucis

Second half of the 19th century – France

A rare and moving testament to Christian devotion, this portable solid silver reliquary medallion contains a precious relic of the True Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ (“Ex Ligno Crucis”).

The main face, protected by glass, features a devotional composition of great finesse set against a background of golden-yellow moiré silk. In the center, a fragment of the wood of the Holy Cross is delicately placed within a cross crafted from paper that has been finely cut by hand.

On either side of the relic are two antique printed phylacteries bearing the inscriptions “True” and “Cross,” unambiguously identifying the nature of this distinguished relic.

The entire piece is set within an elegant oval frame of solid silver, designed to be worn as a pendant thanks to its top bail. With its high-quality craftsmanship and the finesse of its interior mounting, this reliquary perfectly exemplifies French devotional art from the second half of the 19th century.

The reverse side retains its significant original ecclesiastical seal in red wax, which remains perfectly intact. This seal guaranteed the authenticity of the setting and attested that the relic had been recognized and sealed in accordance with Church practice.

It should be noted, however, that the silk thread securing the seal is now broken. This detail is clearly visible in the photographs. The seal itself has never been broken and remains fully preserved, which is a particularly valuable feature for this type of object.

This type of reliquary held a special place in 19th-century personal piety. Worn around the neck or kept in a home oratory, it accompanied its owner daily as an object of protection, prayer, and meditation on the Passion of Christ.

The presence of the relic set at the center of a paper-cut cross, ancient phylacteries identifying the “True Cross,” its solid silver setting, and its intact original ecclesiastical seal, lend this piece a particularly significant historical, religious, and documentary value.

A rare testament to devotion to the True Cross in the 19th century, remarkable both for the quality of its interior presentation and for the preservation of its original ecclesiastical seal.

In good condition. Original red wax seal intact; sealing cord broken. Some slight signs of wear and age consistent with its era.

Dimensions:

Height including clasp: 3 cm

Shipping:

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