Rare Oval Reliquary Containing Relics Of The Apostles And Evangelists And A Wax Seal

A rare and striking oval reliquary of remarkable decorative richness, containing numerous relics accompanied by small handwritten inscriptions that allow for the identification of various Apostles and Evangelists.

The ensemble is enclosed within an elegant carved and gilded wooden frame of oval shape, adorned with volutes and plant motifs. At the center is a cross-shaped relic, around which numerous other relics are arranged, each set against a different textile background and accompanied by its corresponding identifying inscription.

The interior composition is embellished by rich decoration created with metallic thread worked into volutes and spiral motifs, which creates a refined and particularly striking ornamental pattern. The combination of fabrics, metal elements, and various shades lends the reliquary a striking decorative effect.

Among the inscriptions, references can be identified to St. Peter, St. Paul, St. John, St. Matthew, Saint Mark, Saint Luke, Saint Simon, Saint James, Saint Philip, Saint Bartholomew, Saint Jude, and Saint Thomas, making the piece particularly interesting from a devotional and iconographic standpoint.

Of particular interest is the reverse side, where the red sealing wax stamp is still preserved, affixed and integrated into the reliquary’s locking mechanism, an element that provides important evidence of its conservation history and the traditional methods of relic preservation.

The reverse side also preserves the wooden structure and the original elements related to the closure and suspension mechanisms.

An object of strong visual impact and considerable collector’s interest, particularly suited to a collection of sacred art, a historic setting, or a refined interior design project.

Dimensions: height 24 cm × width 19 cm.