Section from a Reliquary
Maker
Unknown Artist
Date15th century
MediumCast, cut and twisted gilt bronze
DimensionsHeight: 7 7/16 in. (18.9 cm)
Credit LineGift of Mrs. Ruth Blumka
Object number1974.73
Status
Not on viewThe function of a reliquary in Catholic ritual is to contain physical fragments of saints such as bones or to hold clothing and other objects associated with their lives. This section from a late Gothic reliquary that evokes the architectural features of a church is a decorative part from a much larger object. It provides us with insight into the materials and techniques of skilled European artisans in the 15th century who made sculptural objects such as this one.
Edmond Johnson
circa 1891 - 1892 (facsimile, after circa 1100 original)
Antonio Gentili (also called Antonio Gentili da Faenza)
circa 1550, with 17th - century and later? reworkings
