RELIC OF SAINT GREGOIRE 1ER known as GREGOIRE THE GREAT

Rare silver reliquary with a glass front containing a relic of Saint Gregory the Great. The relic is carefully affixed at the center of a refined decorative setting. It rests on a red fabric background—a color omnipresent in Christian liturgy that symbolizes the blood of Christ and His redemptive sacrifice. It is mounted on a small diamond-shaped piece of paper or parchment, and a finely crafted silver trim frames the entire piece.

Below, a parchment label bears the inscription "S. Gregorii Mag. PP. D.", confirming the identity of the saint whose relic is preserved.

"Sancti Gregorii Magni, Papae Doctoris." → Of Saint Gregory the Great, Pope and Doctor (of the Church)

The outer frame features raised motifs, a testament to delicate artisanal craftsmanship.

Good used condition with original glass.

Unopened.

Ecclesiastical seal and silk threads present.

PERIOD: 18th century
DIMENSIONS: 3.8 cm X 3 cm
SIZE: 1.5" X 1.2"

Saint Gregory the Great (540–604) was pope from 590 until his death and is renowned for his wisdom and spiritual influence. Recognized as one of the four great Doctors of the Western Church, he is especially honored for his theological writings. He profoundly reformed the Church and its liturgy, leaving his name to Gregorian chant, which he helped to promote. Gregory was also a caring pastor, committed to the poor and to social justice. His “Dialogues” greatly contributed to the popularization of saints' lives and the veneration of relics throughout Europe. He was the first pope to adopt the title “Servant of the Servants of God,” emphasizing the humility of his mission. He was canonized immediately after his death and remains a central figure in Western Christian spirituality.