Reliquary Of The Holy Sepulcher – Italy, 18th Century

Reliquary of the Holy Sepulcher – Italy, 18th century

Gilded alloy reliquary, likely bronze, of 18th-century Italian workmanship.

Description

The architecturally designed, fully openwork frame features a rich Baroque decoration of angels in relief, scrollwork, and foliage, arranged around a central theca. The piece, resting on four scroll-shaped feet and surmounted by a cross, is accented with red and green glass cabochons, adding striking polychromatic color to the gilded decoration.

Relic of the Holy Sepulcher

The central reliquary contains a relic set on a textile background and accompanied by its handwritten titulus:
“ Sepulcro D.N.J.C.” or Sepulcro Domini Nostri Jesu Christi: from the Sepulcher of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

On the reverse, the reliquary retains its ecclesiastical seal in red wax bearing a coat of arms, still in place.

A very fine example of an Italian Baroque reliquary, remarkable for the richness of its setting, its abundant angelic decoration, and the quality of its craftsmanship.

Condition

Signs of wear and minor historical alterations consistent with its age and use.

In accordance with canon law (can. 1190 §1), this sale concerns only the reliquary as an object of sacred art. The relics it contains are not part of the transaction but are included free of charge for their historical and cultural value.

Please feel free to contact me for any additional information or to request more photos of the items offered for sale.