Baroque Silver IHS Reliquary Pendant

Code: 10454

This is a much loved Baroque silver reliquary pendant, dating to the 17th century. It contains an old vellum label inscribed 'Canes'? The relic is set within a gold embroidered flower with a framed surround, laid onto a rich dark red cloth (now faded with time). The frame of the relic is sealed shut, though can and will open (but I would rather have the mystery than open it!). The back of the frame is engraved with IHS Christogram, later used by the Jesuits. The IHS are in Roman-capitals used during the 16th century. Thus this frame may be mid to late 16th century, but I feel it more a 17th-century example. The suspension loop has worn through, although it retains two secondary loops. A nice historic reliquary.

OBJECT:  Reliquary Pendant

CULTURE: Spanish Baroque

DATE: c. 17th century

MATERIAL: Silver

SIZE: 38mm (with bail) 29mm (without)  x 29mm x 6mm 

WEIGHT:  9.4 grams

PROVENANCE: Ex. European Private Collection