RELIQUARY OF THE TRUE CROSS AND INSTRUMENTS OF THE PASSION

Rare bronze reliquary with a glass front, containing a relic of the True Cross. The relic is fixed on a purple silk background and decorated with golden rays of light, it is identified in Latin on a handwritten label: S. Crucis

This reliquary is carefully decorated with several emblematic symbols linked to the passion of Christ. Each element that composes it bears witness to a rich Christian tradition and a profound spirituality.

The Instruments of the Passion
At the heart of this reliquary are the instruments of Christ's passion. The Holy Lance , which pierced Jesus' side during his crucifixion, is a powerful symbol of sacrifice and suffering. Beside it, the Holy Sponge , which was used to give Jesus some vinegar while he was on the cross, represents compassion and mercy. These elements are not only reminders of the pain Christ endured, but also signs of the infinite love he had for humanity.

The Dice of the Roman Soldiers
Another striking detail of the reliquary is the presence of the dice of the Roman soldiers , who drew lots for Jesus' clothes after his crucifixion. This act, although cruel, underlines the humiliation suffered by Christ and illustrates the brutality of the moment. The dice also recall the tragic nature of the story, where the fate of the Savior was in the hands of those who did not understand the scope of their act.

The Ear of Wheat
To complete this iconography, an ear of wheat is integrated into the decoration, a traditional symbol of the Holy Virgin Mary. The ear of wheat represents not only fertility and life, but also the body of Christ, often compared to the bread of life. By including this ear of wheat, the reliquary pays homage to Mary, mother of Jesus, and her crucial role in the mystery of the incarnation.

The INRI Plaque
Finally, the INRI plaque ("Iesus Nazarenus Rex Iudaeorum", or "Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews") is carefully depicted. This acronym, displayed above the cross, is a reminder of Jesus' divine identity and role as king, but also of his humiliation before men. It is a symbol of the eternal truth of the Christian message: the kingship of Christ that transcends suffering and death.

Learn more about the instruments of passion

Good used condition with its original glass.

Not opened.

Ecclesiastical seal and silk threads present.

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

Relics of the true cross are of major spiritual importance in the Christian faith, symbolizing the sacrifice of Christ. Venerated as fragments of the historical cross, they embody the direct connection with the central event of Christianity. These relics, often housed in magnificent reliquaries, are objects of devotion, stimulating meditation on the crucifixion. Their presence within the Church is associated with liturgical rituals, reinforcing the sacred dimension.

Learn more about The True Cross