RELIQUARY, SAINT AUGUSTIN RELIC

Rare silver-plated bronze reliquary with a glass front containing a first-class Ex Ossibus relic of Saint Augustine. The relic is affixed at the center of a richly decorated setting—adorned with gilded-edge paperoles and silver threads—and is identified in Latin on a handwritten label as: Ex Ossibus S. Agustin. (From the bones of Saint Augustine).  

Good used condition with original glass.

Unopened.

Ecclesiastical seal and silk threads present.

PERIOD: 18th century
DIMENSIONS: 3.5 cm X 2.8 cm
SIZE: 1.4" X 1.1"

Saint Augustine (354–430) is one of the greatest thinkers of the Christian Church. Born in Thagaste, North Africa (present-day Algeria), he first led a worldly life before converting to Christianity under the influence of his mother, Saint Monica, and Saint Ambrose. As Bishop of Hippo, he wrote many major works, including The Confessions and The City of God. A profound philosopher, he greatly influenced Western theology, especially regarding grace, sin, and human freedom. His thought combines Christian faith with Neoplatonic philosophy. He is considered a Father and Doctor of the Church. Saint Augustine is commemorated on August 28.