RELIC OF SAINT TARCISIUS

Rare reliquary framed in a gilded mount and decorated with faceted transparent stones, likely glass or rhinestones imitating diamonds. At the center, a red fabric background highlights the relic, protected by a glass pane. The relic itself, a tiny fragment set in a small diamond-shaped cartouche, is affixed above a parchment bearing the handwritten inscription: "s. Tharsitii M."

This inscription means "Sancti Tharsitii Martyris", that is: "of Saint Tarcisius, martyr". Tarcisius was a young Christian martyr of the 3rd century who died while protecting the Eucharist from pagans as he was secretly bringing it to imprisoned Christians.

Good condition with original glass.

Unopened.

Ecclesiastical seal and silk threads present.

PERIOD: 19th century
DIMENSIONS: 3.5 cm X 3 cm
SIZE: 1.4" X 1.2"

Saint Tarcisius was a young Christian of the 3rd century, martyred in Rome under Emperor Valerian around the year 257. According to tradition, he was carrying the Eucharist to imprisoned Christians when he was attacked by a pagan crowd. Rather than surrender the sacred species, he chose to face death, remaining faithful to the mystery he bore. His exemplary courage made him a symbol of Eucharistic fidelity and youthful piety. He was buried in the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus, where his cult developed early. Although few historical details are certain, his example has endured through the centuries. He is now the patron saint of altar servers and acolytes.