RELIC OF SAINT ANTHONY OF PADUA

Rare pewter reliquary with a glass facade containing the first class relic Ex Ossibus of Saint Anthony of Padua.

The relic is fixed on a silk background and decorated with gold leaf, it is identified in Latin on a handwritten label as: Ex Oss: S: Anto. Patav ("Ex Ossibus Sancti Antonii Patavini", or "From the bones of Saint Anthony of Padua").

On the back, an ecclesiastical wax seal guarantees the integrity of the relic. The silk threads are present.

Not opened.

PERIOD : 18th century
DIMENSIONS : 3 cm X 3.3 cm
SIZE : 1.1" X 1.2"

Saint Anthony of Padua (1195-1231) was a Franciscan monk of Portuguese origin, famous for his preaching and his deep knowledge of the Scriptures. Born in Lisbon as Fernando Martins de Bulhões, he joined the Franciscan order and traveled to Italy, where he became an influential preacher. He is particularly known for his fiery sermons and miracles, often depicted holding the Infant Jesus. His oratory earned him the title of "Evangelical Doctor" of the Church. He is invoked to find lost objects and to provide spiritual aid to those in search of guidance. Canonized only a year after his death, he is one of the most venerated saints in Christianity. His basilica in Padua is an important place of pilgrimage.