Arm reliquary, c. 1350-1400
Unknown artist, Franceexpand_more
Silver, parcel gilt, ruby, saphires, garnet, spinel, beryl, quartzes, pearls, rock crystalexpand_more
The Driscoll Art Accessions Endowment Fundexpand_more 2016.37
On View in Gallery 340expand_more
A reliquary contains a relic (or what is recognized as a relic) of a particular saint—often a fragment of bone or other body part—and often takes the form of the source of the relic. Reliquaries were commissioned by Catholic churches from prominent local goldsmiths, starting in the Middle Ages, and displayed for veneration in church and in holy processions. Arm reliquaries were a favorite form at this time as priests would use them to touch the faithful, believing that the power of the deceased saint could help heal them.
It is not known whether this reliquary was intended for a congregation in Brittany, in northern France, or in southern England, where it is thought to have originated and was most recently collected. Its realistic use of sheet silver wrapping the hand, with fingers raised in blessing, and its rich adornment with precious stones, silver-gilt banding in imitation of richly embroidered trim, and a rock crystal reliquary compartment (now empty) continue to make it a captivating object.
Details
- Title
- Arm reliquary
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2016.37
- Curator Approved
This record is from historic documentation and may not have been reviewed by a curator, so may be inaccurate or incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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