RELIC OF SAINT ANTOINE DE PADOUE

Rare silver reliquary with a glass front containing the relic of Saint Anthony of Padua.

The relic is mounted on a silk background and decorated with paperoles and silver threads. It is identified in Latin on a handwritten label as: S. Antonii Pat.

Good condition, with its original glass.

Unopened.

Ecclesiastical seal and silk threads present.

Unopened.

PERIOD: 18th century
DIMENSIONS: 3.5 cm x 3 cm
SIZE: 1.4" x 1.2"

Saint Anthony of Padua (1195–1231) was a Portuguese Franciscan monk, renowned for his preaching and 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 especially known for his passionate sermons and miracles and is often depicted holding the Christ Child. His gift for preaching earned him the title of "Evangelical Doctor" of the Church. He is invoked to find lost items and spiritually assists those seeking guidance. Canonized just one year after his death, he is one of the most venerated saints in Christianity. His basilica in Padua remains an important place of pilgrimage.