Reliquary Of The Holy Cross – Lignum Crucis – Italy, 18th Century

Reliquary of the Holy Cross – Lignum Crucis – Italy, 18th century

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

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 topped with a cross, is accented with red and green glass cabochons, lending remarkable polychromy to the gilded decoration.

The central reliquary contains a relic of the Holy Cross (Lignum Crucis), consisting of two fragments of wood arranged in the shape of a cross on their original mount, under glass.

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 pertains solely to the reliquary as an object of sacred art. The relics it contains are not the subject of the transaction but are included as a courtesy due to their historical and cultural value.

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