BAROQUE RELIQUARY OF THE TRUE CROSS

Rare architectural reliquary of the True Cross dating from the 18th century, crafted in carved and gilded wood. Its form evokes a small chapel or Baroque tabernacle, designed to showcase one of the most precious relics of Christianity.

Made of moulded and gilded wood, this reliquary features an elegant classical architectural design with projecting cornices, a pedestal, and a curved pediment. At its center is a circular glazed opening offering a view of an exceptionally refined devotional composition.

The relic is displayed against a linen fabric background, at the heart of an arrangement of finely applied gilded bullion wire forming circular decorative motifs. At the center is a cross cut from paper, upon which is mounted a precious fragment of the True Cross, secured with original period threads and surrounded by delicate mother-of-pearl beads. The whole forms a composition of remarkable simplicity, characteristic of 18th-century convent reliquaries.

The placement of the relic at the center of a cross reinforces its symbolic significance, making this work a true object of contemplation intended for private devotion.

The inscriptions "EX SS" and "DNJC", visible on either side of the cross, are abbreviations of Ex Sanctissima Cruce Domini Nostri Jesu Christi, meaning "From the Most Holy Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ." This formula frequently appears on authentic relics of the True Cross from the 17th and 18th centuries.

The reliquary remains in its original historical condition, retaining its original gilding with a beautiful aged patina and natural wear that bears witness to its history. A few small losses to the wood, mainly visible on the corners, do not detract from either its character or its presentation.

Good state of preservation.
Original period glass.
Original and intact internal mounting.
Never opened.

PERIOD : 18th century
DIMENSIONS : 12 cm
SIZE : 4.7"

The True Cross refers, according to Christian tradition, to the wood of the cross upon which Jesus Christ was crucified. From the earliest centuries, these relics were regarded as among the holiest in all Christendom. Tradition attributes their discovery to Saint Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine, during her pilgrimage to Jerusalem around the year 326.

From the Middle Ages onward, tiny fragments were distributed among major churches, monasteries, and certain religious communities, where they were preserved in reliquaries specially created to reflect their exceptional importance. Relics of the True Cross were displayed during major liturgical celebrations and were the object of profound veneration.

Small architectural reliquaries such as this example, inspired by the form of tabernacles and church façades, were intended to enhance the relic they contained. The richness of their decoration, the use of gilded bullion wire, and the delicacy of their internal composition perfectly illustrate the devotional art of the 18th century. Examples preserved in their original condition, with their original glass and intact internal mounting, are today especially sought after for both their artistic quality and their historical and spiritual significance.