RELIQUARY OF SAINT ALEXANDER AND SAINT FELIX

Rare 19th-century silver reliquary with a glass front containing relics of Saints Alexander and Felix.

This delicate oval reliquary features an elegant repoussé and chased silver mount adorned with Neo-Baroque motifs characteristic of 19th-century Catholic devotion. A suspension loop at the top once allowed it to be worn or hung in a private oratory.

The front is decorated with a relief image of the radiant Immaculate Virgin, inspired by the iconography of the Miraculous Medal popularized after the apparitions at Rue du Bac. This Marian imagery gives the piece a strong devotional character.

Beneath the original glass is a reliquary arrangement set against a green silk background. Two distinct relics are preserved in separate compartments and accompanied by their original handwritten labels:

“Alexand”
→ Sancti Alexandri
Translation: Saint Alexander

“Felix”
→ Sancti Felicis
Translation: Saint Felix

The partially abbreviated handwriting is typical of small 19th-century reliquaries. Although the name Alexander is abbreviated, the identification as Saint Alexander is clear. The presence of Saint Felix alongside him suggests a reliquary containing relics of two early Christian martyrs, a common practice in devotional objects of the period.

The reverse retains its original red wax ecclesiastical seal, guaranteeing the integrity of the reliquary and confirming that it has not been opened since its original sealing. This official seal served as the canonical guarantee of the authenticity of the relics contained within.

Good overall condition with age-related wear and patina.
Original antique glass.
Original wax seal preserved.
Unopened.

PERIOD: 19th century
SIZE: approximately 2.8 × 2.2 cm
SIZE: 1.10" × 0.87"

Saint Alexander and Saint Felix

Saints Alexander and Felix are among the many martyrs venerated by the early Church. Several saints bearing these names were honored in Christian antiquity, particularly in Rome and throughout various provinces of the Roman Empire. Their cult spread through the preservation of their relics in the catacombs and their inclusion in ancient martyrologies. During the 19th century, numerous relics attributed to early Christian martyrs were distributed throughout Europe to foster the devotion of the faithful and enrich church altars as well as private oratories. Such reliquaries served both as objects of personal devotion and as tangible expressions of the spiritual communion between believers and the saints. The joint presence of Saints Alexander and Felix in a single reliquary illustrates this long-standing tradition of venerating martyrs, who were regarded as powerful intercessors before God because of the supreme witness they gave through their faith.