RELIQUARY OF THE TWO SAINT JAMESES – 18TH CENTURY

Rare 18th-century oval reliquary containing double relics of Saint James, with glazed front, convent work decoration, and intact ecclesiastical seal.

This rare devotional reliquary contains two relics identified by old handwritten inscriptions, arranged on a crimson red silk background. The interior composition is enhanced by an elegant decoration of gilded metallic bullion wire forming symmetrical scrolls characteristic of Baroque convent craftsmanship of the 17th and 18th centuries.

The relics are preserved within two oval compartments bordered with cut metallic paper and accompanied by period handwritten labels.

The inscriptions allow the identification of the following relics:

“S. Iacob Maj. Ap.”

Sancti Iacobi Maioris Apostoli

Translation: Saint James the Greater, Apostle

Saint James the Greater, son of Zebedee and brother of Saint John the Evangelist, belonged to the inner circle of Christ together with Peter and John. The first of the Apostles to suffer martyrdom, he was beheaded in Jerusalem around the year 44 by order of King Herod Agrippa. His cult experienced extraordinary growth during the Middle Ages thanks to the famous shrine of Santiago de Compostela, which became one of the greatest pilgrimage destinations in Christendom. Patron saint of pilgrims, he remains one of the most venerated saints in the Catholic world.

“S. Iacob. Min. Ap.”

Sancti Iacobi Minoris Apostoli

Translation: Saint James the Lesser, Apostle

Saint James the Lesser, traditionally identified as the son of Alphaeus and the first Bishop of Jerusalem, held a prominent position in the early Church. As the author of the Epistle of James, he played a major role at the Council of Jerusalem and was regarded as one of the principal authorities of the emerging Christian community. He suffered martyrdom around the year 62 and is honored as one of the Twelve Apostles.

The association of these two relics is particularly significant. It brings together the two Saints James of the Apostolic College, major figures of the early Church whose cults spread throughout Christendom from the earliest centuries. Reliquaries containing relics of several Apostles were especially sought after because of the spiritual prestige attached to the direct witnesses of Christ.

The reverse retains its red wax ecclesiastical seal as well as its original silk threads, guaranteeing the integrity of the reliquary and attesting that it has not been opened since its ecclesiastical authentication. Although partially worn by time, the seal remains intact and in place, an essential feature for collectors and institutions.

Through the quality of its workmanship, the refinement of its convent decoration, and the presence of two identified apostolic relics, this reliquary constitutes a remarkable testimony to Catholic devotion during the 17th and 18th centuries and to the veneration of the holy Apostles.

Good condition consistent with age and use.
Original period glass.
Unopened.
Red wax ecclesiastical seal and silk threads present.

PERIOD: 18th century
DIMENSIONS: 5 cm × 4 cm
SIZE: 2" × 1.6"