For your consideration, this lovely and unique hand made Reliquary, following ancient Byzantine and Romanesque models from central Europe.
Framed in Barcelona (Spain), early 1900s
Bronze, Enamels, Giltwood.
The central Altar depicts the Crucifixion of Christ witnessed by Virgin Mary and St John the Baptist.
At the Crucifixion of Jesus, the presence of St. John and Mary, his mother, signifies profound theological and emotional meanings. John´s presence at the foot of the cross being the "disciple whom Jesus loved," demonstrates loyalty and love, fullfillin Jesus´s requestto care for Mary. Mary´s presence, while a source of immense grief, also symbolizesher obedience to God´s will and her role as the "Mother of the Church", representing the new convenant community born from Christ´s sacrifice.
The piece is a wonderful and unique example of religious art following the Byzantine/Romanesque craftmanship style, great mastery in the finish and careful detailed figures.
Inscription in Latin IHS above the Cross of Christ. This is Iesus (Jesus) Hominum (of humankind) Salvator ( Savior). XPS in Ancient Greek for `Iesous Christos´ as well.
The two doors of the Altar can be opened and closed. On each door a standing gold Angel against a blue enamel background.