RELIQUARY, RELIC OF SAINT HILARY

Rare bronze reliquary with a glass front containing the relic of Saint Hilary. The relic, placed in the center, is carefully set in a radiant decoration of gilded paper in the shape of an eight-rayed sun, on a deep blue background that enhances the whole. The old handwritten label, in Latin, identifies the saint: S. Hilarius M.

Good condition with its original glass.

Not opened.

Ecclesiastical seal and silk threads present.

PERIOD : 18th century
DIMENSION : 5 cm X 3.5 cm
SIZE : 2" X 1.4"

Saint Hilary of Poitiers (c. 315–367) was a bishop and Doctor of the Church, called “the Athanasius of the West” for his vigorous defense of the Trinitarian faith against Arianism. Originally from Aquitaine, he converted to Christianity as an adult and was elected bishop of Poitiers around 350. Exiled to Phrygia by Emperor Constantius II because of his opposition to the Arians, he deepened his theology there and wrote his major work, the De Trinitate. Upon returning to Gaul, he continued to fight for orthodoxy and supported Saint Martin of Tours in his ministry. His teaching had a lasting influence on Western theology, affirming the divinity of Christ and the unity of the Trinity. Recognized as a Father and Doctor of the Church, he is commemorated on January 13. His exemplary life and writings make him one of the great figures of Christian antiquity.