Tabernacle—reliquary Of Saint Charles Borromeo With The Coronation Of The Virgin, 18th-century Italy

Tabernacle-reliquary of Saint Charles Borromeo

Northern Italy or the Alpine region, 17th–early 18th century

An important Baroque reliquary tabernacle made of ebony, richly adorned with columns, volutes, and a pediment, embellished with decorative elements in gilded metal and bone.

In the center, a remarkable brass plaque (28 cm x 14 cm), embossed and fire-gilded, depicting the Coronation of the Virgin by the Holy Trinity, surrounded by clouds and angel heads, with a landscape in the lower portion.

In the base, several relics accompanied by delicate monastic craftsmanship; in the center, a relic ex ossibus of Saint Charles Borromeo, identified by the inscription “S. Carolus. Ep.” A portrait of the saint, cardinal, and archbishop of Milan, is depicted in the upper niche.

A rare and beautiful Baroque devotional ensemble, likely intended for a private or convent chapel.