Reliquary Of The Holy Thorn—christ’s Crown Of Thorns—italy, 18th Century

Reliquary of the Holy Thorn—Christ’s Crown of Thorns—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 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 Thorn

The central reliquary contains a Holy Thorn, traditionally believed to have come from Christ’s Crown of Thorns. The inscription “D.N.J.C.” stands for Domini Nostri Jesu Christi—“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 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.

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