Renaissance Revival Reliquary Cross, Ebony with Intricate Paperole Monastic Filigree Work and Agnus Dei, ca. 1870

Details

Description

Historical Craftsmanship | Mechanical Collectible | Rarely Preserved

This extraordinary reliquary cross from the second half of the 19th century … Read more Historical Craftsmanship | Mechanical Collectible | Rarely Preserved

This extraordinary reliquary cross from the second half of the 19th century is a striking example of sacred folk art and fine monastic craftsmanship. The solid cross captivates with its elegant combination of polished metal and deep black ebony inlays, which lend the piece a timeless, almost modern aesthetic.
What makes it special:
A precise screw mechanism on the underside allows the crucifix to be opened, revealing a perfectly preserved interior. Inside is a masterpiece of monastic craftsmanship (paperole). Using an intricate quilling technique, the finest gold-edged paper strips have been shaped into ornaments that encase various relic particles.
Details of the relics:
The central centerpiece is an "Agnus Dei" (Lamb of God). The surrounding relics are clearly identifiable by hand-inscribed cedulae (name tags), including saints such as Cordula, Victor, Amator, and Peter.
Condition & Aesthetics:
For an object of this age, the condition is excellent. Particularly noteworthy is the freshness of the gold leaf work on the interior, which shows no signs of corrosion or moisture damage. The mechanism functions flawlessly.
This cross is far more than a religious artifact; it is a fascinating “conversation piece” for discerning collectors of curiosities (cabinet of curiosities objects) and historical design.
• Period: ca. 1860–1880
• Material: metal (silver-plated), ebony, gold leaf, textile relics

Height: 11.5 cm
Width: 5.5 cm
Depth: 2 cm See less