Reliquary Of The Holy Table – Mensae D.n.j.c. – Italy, 18th Century

Reliquary of the Holy Table – Mensae D.N.J.C. – Italy, 18th century

Reliquary made of a gilded alloy, likely bronze, of 18th-century Italian workmanship.

Description

The architecturally styled, 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, lending a striking polychromatic effect to the gilded decoration.

Relic of the Holy Table

The central reliquary contains a fragment accompanied by its handwritten titulus “Mensae D.N.J.C.,” an abbreviation of Mensae Domini Nostri Jesu Christi, meaning “from the Table of Our Lord Jesus Christ.”

It is therefore a contact relic or fragment traditionally attributed to the Holy Table, associated in Christian tradition with the table of the Last Supper.

On the reverse, the reliquary still bears its ecclesiastical seal in red wax bearing a coat of arms, which remains 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 pertains solely to the reliquary as an object of sacred art. The relics it contains are not part of the transaction but are included as a courtesy due to their historical and cultural value.

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