Antique Silver Reliquary. José Vilaplana. Valencia, Spain. Circa 1920

Antique Silver Reliquary. José Vilaplana. Valencia, Spain. C. 1920

This magnificent reliquary, crafted in Valencia around 1920 by the prestigious silversmith José Vilaplana, is a deeply devotional piece distinguished by its imposing height, lavish ornamentation, and fine craftsmanship. Made entirely of silver, it features exquisite repoussé and chasing throughout its structure, confirming the mastery of Vilaplana’s Valencian workshop, whose maker’s mark is clearly visible on the back.

The overall design follows a floral cross shape, crowned by an ornate Latin cross that adds both verticality and symbolic meaning. At the center lies a circular compartment traditionally intended to house a relic of the True Cross, though it is equally suited for other types of relics, such as those of saints or blesseds. The front retains its original glass, and the back preserves the cavity, currently empty, making this an ideal opportunity for collectors or ecclesiastical institutions seeking to restore its liturgical use.

The richly detailed floral decoration covers the entire upper structure with clusters of flowers and leaves symmetrically distributed among scrolls and medallions. The lobed base, elevated on four curved and ornamented feet, displays vegetal filigree motifs adorned with green glass stones that provide a delicate contrast to the silver surface. This combination of silver with colored glass was highly appreciated in early 20th-century liturgical objects.

The piece shows no visible structural flaws and is in excellent condition. All details remain sharp, with no loss of repoussé work or signs of corrosion. The interior bears natural patinas that confirm its age while preserving its beauty. Weighing 722 grams, it offers excellent stability for display on an altar or within a devotional setting.

With its refined aesthetic, balanced proportions, and rich detail, this piece is a superb addition to any parish, collection of sacred art, religious museum, or private devotional space. Perfect for reintroduction into church use or for active liturgical service in a parish.

Measurements: 48 × 18.3 × 14 cm (18.9 × 7.2 × 5.5 in). Weight: 722 g.

History of José Vilaplana

José Vilaplana was a prominent Valencian silversmith active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His workshop in Valencia specialized in producing liturgical objects in repoussé silver, known for their technical excellence and richly detailed vegetal and religious motifs. The "J. Vilaplana" hallmark appears on many sacred objects, chalices, monstrances, reliquaries, and incense boats, many of which are still preserved today in parishes throughout the Valencian Community and in private collections of sacred art.

Vilaplana’s production coincided with a flourishing period for Spanish religious art, when finely crafted ritual objects were in high demand, especially in major centers such as Valencia, Seville, and Toledo. His stylistic language blends neo-Gothic influences with touches of early Modernisme, evident in the curved forms, floral motifs, and the incorporation of colored glass stones.

Over the years, Vilaplana’s works have gained growing recognition in the international market for religious antiques due to their authenticity and the exceptional quality of the silverwork. His signed pieces are now sought after by both devout collectors and curators of sacred art as they represent not only an expression of religious faith but also a valuable testimony to the excellence of Valencian silversmithing at the beginning of the 20th century.