Reliquary Of The Holy Tunic Of Christ – 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 topped by a cross, is punctuated by red and green glass cabochons, adding a striking polychromatic effect to the gilded decoration.

Relic of the Holy Tunic

The central reliquary contains a relic set against a textile background
The upper titulus reads “Ex Tunicam”—more likely a corruption of Ex Tunica — meaning “from the Tunic.”
The lower titulus “D.N.J.C.” corresponds to Domini Nostri Jesu Christi, “of Our Lord Jesus Christ.”

This is therefore a fragment traditionally attributed to the Holy Tunic of Christ, displayed in the center on a red silk background, under glass.

On the reverse, the reliquary still bears its ecclesiastical seal in red wax bearing a coat of arms, which remains intact.

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.

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