Oval Reliquary Made Of Solid Silver — 18th Century — Relic Of Saint Andrew Avellin (1521–1608)

Rare oval solid silver reliquary from the late 18th or early 19th century, containing a textile relic of Saint Andrew Avellin (1521–1608).

An elegant oval devotional reliquary, crafted from solid silver in the late 18th century, preserved in excellent condition.

The interior, which has remained sealed and has never been opened, contains a textile relic of Saint Andrew Avellin, carefully displayed at the center of a remarkable canivet decoration. The relic is accompanied by its authentic label bearing the inscription “ S. Andrae Avelli ,” attesting to its identification.

Two hallmarks are visible on the side of the reliquary: one corresponding to the silver’s fineness, the second bearing the initials “SC,” attributable to the artisan or silversmith.

The reverse also retains its red wax seal, depicting a crowned shield bearing a cross—a particularly interesting testament to the reliquary’s original integrity. The fact that the reliquary has never been opened considerably enhances its historical significance and its value as an object of devotion.

Saint Andrew Avellino (1521–1608), born Lancelot Avellino in Castronuovo di Sant’Andrea in the Kingdom of Naples, was an Italian religious of the Theatine Order. After practicing law, he devoted himself to the religious life and entered the Theatines, becoming one of their leading spiritual figures.

Renowned for his deep devotion to prayer, penance, and the reform of religious life, he devoted a large part of his life to spiritual direction and preaching. He died in Naples on November 10, 1608, as he was beginning to celebrate Mass.

He was beatified in 1624 by Urban VIII and canonized in 1712 by Clement XI. He is notably invoked as a protector against sudden death and stroke.

Since the relics of Saint Andrew Avellin are relatively rare on the market, this reliquary is a particularly interesting devotional object, both for its religious significance and for its historical and artistic value.

Dimensions: approximately 3 cm in height, not including the loop.

A small, particularly refined object combining solid silver, a textile relic, an authentic canivet, and a wax seal, all in remarkable condition.

Police Registry Ref.: A184

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