Spanish Reliquary, 1st Third of the 20th Century

Beautiful Nickel Silver Reliquary Made in Spain, First Third of the 20th Century. Decorative and Well-Preserved Piece

This elegant piece of religious craftsmanship is a nickel silver reliquary dating from the first third of the 20th century. The reliquary is in excellent condition and features a highly decorative and stylized design, making it a beautiful piece to adorn any room or to be part of a fine collection. It consists of a solid, simple square base resting on four small legs, atop which rises a pedestal carved with the figure of a child angel. The figure supports the upper section, or sun, which features a simple circular disc surrounded by stylized rays and crowned by a charming sculptural group consisting of a cross and two small angels.

The sculptural quality of this reliquary is likely its greatest appeal. The central figure forming the base, hand-carved, is the most striking part of the piece: it depicts a standing infant angel, bending his left knee in a graceful pose and holding the sun with the finial in his hands. The angel is naked except for a cloth wrapped around his waist, which nevertheless leaves his back exposed. To his left is a rock on which he leans. The figure holds, with apparent ease, a cup-shaped piece that forms the base of the upper section.

The compartment for the relic is lined with red fabric on the inside. It is surrounded by eight symmetrical rays and crowned, as noted, by a small group of figures: a Latin cross with two small angels flying, one on each side. The back of the reliquary bears two engraved stamps: one bears the number 10800, while the other consists of the inscription CASTE. Both stamps are also engraved on the upper part of the base, next to the plinth decorated with putti heads upon which the figure of the angel stands.

The delicacy and undeniable beauty of this reliquary will make it the most striking piece in any room, or in a display case dedicated to showcasing beautiful antiques.

Dimensions: Width: 21.5 cm. Height: 38.5 cm.