RELIQUARY OF THE HOLY MILK OF THE VIRGIN MARY

This extremely rare reliquary bottle from the 18th century, crafted from delicate glass, contains one of the most sacred and venerated relics of the Christian tradition: the Holy Milk of the Virgin MaryThis bottle embodies not only an object of worship but also a tangible testimony of the deep faith of believers throughout the centuries.

The identification of the relics inside is marked by a label in Latin bearing the inscription Ex Lact. B.M.V. (Ex Milk of the Blessed Virgin Mary), literally meaning "Of the Milk of the Blessed Virgin Mary". This inscription authenticates and sanctifies the content, which is perceived as a tangible manifestation of Mary's divine motherhood. The relic of the Holy Milk, very rare, was particularly venerated in the Middle Ages and beyond, as it symbolized not only the purity and maternal kindness of the Virgin but also the direct connection between the divine and the human.

The glass, the material chosen to contain this precious relic, highlights the fragility and preciousness of the object, while providing visual and material protection. Its transparency allowed the faithful to glimpse what they considered a direct link with the Holy Mother of God. Every aspect of this vial, from its glass craftsmanship to the precision of the Latin label, reflects the religious and cultural significance that these relics held in 18th-century society.

Today, this reliquary bottle represents much more than a simple historical curiosity. It embodies devotion, faith, and the Christian tradition of a time when it was believed that possessing or contemplating a relic could bring protection, healing, and divine blessings. Its rarity makes it a collectible piece of invaluable worth, both for enthusiasts of religious history and for believers, who see in this bottle a sacred connection to the past.

Although dating back several centuries, this bottle has never been opened. It is sealed with two period episcopal wax seals, thus guaranteeing the authenticity and integrity of its contents. The silk threads that hold this seal are also in perfect condition, attesting to the extraordinary preservation of this sacred object over the years.

These details testify not only to the religious significance of this relic but also to the meticulous care with which it has been preserved through the centuries. The intact seal and the still-present silk threads add a rare dimension to this vial, making it not only an object of worship but also a precious vestige of religious and historical heritage.

The integrity of these original elements enhances the exceptional nature of this reliquary, an invaluable treasure for collectors and for those who still perceive today the spiritual and historical depth of Christian relics.

The visible accidents on this object, notably a restored foot and some chips on the glass globe, tell the story of this precious reliquary. Each mark of wear from time gives this piece a rare authenticity and a unique beauty, where the fragility of the glass reminds us of the priceless value of the relics it protects. This flask is more than just a simple container; it is a witness to the passage of time, carrying within it a symbolism that is both spiritual and historical, making it a unique artifact, imbued with a sacred aura.

ERA 18th century
DIMENSION : 11cm
SIZE : 14,3"

The relics of the Milk of the Holy Virgin have a deeply rooted origin in Christian tradition. They are said to come from the cave where the Virgin Mary is believed to have breastfed the Child Jesus in Bethlehem. This scene, imbued with tenderness and sacredness, is at the heart of the legend surrounding these relics. According to this legend, a few drops of this divine milk fell into a crack in the rock, thus creating a sacred spring. The stone, touched by these drops, transformed into a soft and white material, evoking the appearance of milk. This limestone, rich with sacred imprints, was named "milk of the Virgin," symbolizing the purity and holiness of divine motherhood.

The discovery of this cave by Christians during the Crusades was a major turning point, awakening a growing interest in these relics. In the Middle Ages, this devotion manifested itself in a particularly intense manner, as evidenced by the numerous reliquaries preserved in churches and the inventories of ecclesiastical treasures. These precious objects testify to the importance placed on these relics and their role in the spiritual life of believers.

The pilgrims, in large numbers, flocked to the cave to venerate this sacred place, drawn by the fame of the miracles attributed to it. Testimonies report miraculous healings that are said to have occurred through the intercession of this sacred milk. This phenomenon reinforced the mystical aura of the cave and its relics, encouraging the faithful to travel long distances in search of comfort and healing. Over the centuries, this sacred milk was transported throughout Europe, venerated in many churches and contributing to the spread of Marian devotion.

A fascinating aspect of this legend is the mysterious transformation of the powder, which liquefies to take on the appearance of milk in certain churches housing reliquaries containing these precious relics, particularly in regions like Murcia or Naples, Italy, during the feast days of the Holy Virgin. These extraordinary manifestations attracted even more attention from the faithful and strengthened their veneration, thus consolidating faith in its miraculous properties.

The Templars, as protectors of holy places, played a crucial role in the preservation and renown of these precious relics. Their commitment to defending these sacred sites not only contributed to their protection but also helped to keep the Marian devotion alive through the centuries. Thus, the relics of the Milk of the Holy Virgin have become powerful symbols of faith and mystery, rooted in the spiritual history of medieval Europe.

Learn more about the holy milk of the Virgin Mary