RELIC OF SAINT EMIDIUS

Rare oval reliquary in silver and glass containing a precious relic of Saint Emid (Emidius), bishop and martyr.
The relic, carefully arranged at the center on an antique red fabric background, is accompanied by its period handwritten label: “S. Emidii Ep. M.”, an abbreviation of Sancti Emidii Episcopi Martyris. It unequivocally designates an authentic fragment of the holy bishop, traditionally invoked as a protector against earthquakes.

Surrounding the relic, a finely worked decoration of silver wire, with baroque scrolls and small gilded paper elements, forms an elegant radiating composition evocative of a sacred halo. An inner border composed of tiny silvered metal teeth frames the relic, reinforcing the precious character of the whole.

The reliquary retains its original glass, its intact ecclesiastical seal, and its silk sealing threads, attesting that it has never been opened since its creation. The overall condition is very good, with the characteristic patina of 18th-century devotional objects.

Certified relics of Saint Emid, bishop of Ascoli in the 4th century and martyr for the faith, are particularly sought after. The saint enjoys an ancient and locally very important cult, especially in central Italy, where he is venerated for having miraculously protected the city during seismic events. The controlled dissemination of his relics over the centuries makes them rare objects on the market today.

PERIOD : 18th century
DIMENSIONS : 4 cm × 3.5 cm
SIZE : 1.6" × 1.4"

Saint Emid, or Emidius, is one of the most venerated figures of central Italy. Converted to Christianity at a time when the faith was still scarcely tolerated, he received a solid religious education and was ordained bishop. His ministry was characterized by apostolic zeal, charity, and courageous action in a region that was still largely pagan.

According to tradition, Emid performed several miracles, including delivering Ascoli from natural disasters. Refusing to renounce his faith, he was ultimately martyred for Christ. Very early on, his tomb became a place of pilgrimage, and his intercession is still invoked today as protection against earthquakes.

His cult spread as early as the early Middle Ages, and he is celebrated on August 5. Iconography depicts him as a bishop holding the pa