RELIQUARY CROSS OF SAINT PIERRE AND SAINT ANDRE

This oval reliquary in gilded bronze, of great ornamental refinement, is surrounded by a gilt frame adorned with green cut stones, likely glass imitating emerald, and topped with the papal tiara flanked by the keys of Saint Peter — undeniable emblems of the spiritual authority of the Roman Church. The border is decorated with stylized laurel branches, symbols of victory and holiness. The entire piece, protected by glass, presents on a purple velvet background two sacred relics, each labeled in French with a handwritten tag and framed with a gold ornament in the shape of a cross.

Fragment of the Cross of Saint Peter

In the upper position lies a small fragment of wood, identified by the label "Croix de St Pierre". According to early Christian tradition, the Apostle Peter, first of the popes, was crucified in Rome under Emperor Nero around the year 64. Out of humility, Peter is said to have requested to be crucified upside down, believing himself unworthy to die in the same manner as Christ. The cross of his martyrdom became a powerful symbol of faith and loyalty to the Church. Supposed fragments of this cross were carefully preserved and distributed over the centuries in reliquaries intended for the veneration of the faithful. The one presented here, though tiny in size, holds immense spiritual value, both for the apostle it represents and for its symbolic connection to early Christian Rome.

Fragment of the Cross of Saint Andrew

In the lower position lies a second fragment of wood, accompanied by the label "Croix de St André". Andrew, brother of Peter and also an apostle, is considered the evangelizer of many regions, particularly Greece and Asia Minor. According to tradition, he was crucified in Patras (modern-day Greece) on an X-shaped cross — now known as the "cross of Saint Andrew." This type of cross has become emblematic in several Christian cultures and even in civil symbols (such as the Scottish flag). The wood contained in this reliquary is presented as a remnant of this martyrdom cross, passed down and preserved with devotion by the faithful and clergy.

Good condition, with original glass.

Unopened.

Ecclesiastical seals and silk threads present.

PERIOD: 19th century
DIMENSIONS: 9 cm X 6 cm
SIZE: 3.5" X 2.4"