RELIC OF SAINT SATURNINUS

Rare reliquary in silvered bronze with a glass front containing a first-class Ex Ossibus relic of Saint Saturninus.

The relic is affixed at the center of an elegant design. It rests on a deep red fabric background—a color omnipresent in Christian liturgy that symbolizes the blood of Christ and His redemptive sacrifice. Around the relic, a radiant gold-leaf motif evokes a divine halo, reinforcing its sacred character.

Below, a paper or parchment label bears the inscription "Ex oss. S. Saturnini Mar" (From the bones of Saint Saturninus, martyr.)

Good condition with original glass.

Unopened.

Ecclesiastical seal and silk threads present.

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

Saint Saturninus, also known as Saint Sernin, was the first bishop of Toulouse in the 3rd century. He was sent by Rome to evangelize Gaul, which was still largely pagan. His apostolic zeal drew the hostility of the city's pagan priests. Refusing to sacrifice to the gods, he was martyred around the year 250: tied to a furious bull, he was dragged through the streets until he died. His martyrdom left a deep mark on Toulouse, which dedicated a major basilica to him—the famous Basilica of Saint-Sernin. He is honored as one of the great founding saints of the Christian faith in the West. His feast day is celebrated on November 29.