{"title":"Thecas \u0026 Ecclesiastical Antiques","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eA \u003cstrong\u003etheca\u003c\/strong\u003e is the small sealed vessel — usually of brass, gilt metal, or silver, glazed at the front — that holds a relic within a reliquary. The pieces in this collection are antique thecae and reliquaries of the 18th and 19th centuries, most holding second-class relics and closed at the reverse with an episcopal wax seal over silk cords.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eWhere a theca still carries its original seal, its accompanying \u003cem\u003eauthentica\u003c\/em\u003e, or a legible \u003cem\u003ecedula\u003c\/em\u003e naming the saint, we say so and describe exactly what can be read. Where a seal is broken, a thread is lost, or an attribution rests on the object itself rather than a document, we say that too. We state what is known, document what accompanies each piece, and never overstate what cannot be proven.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"relic-of-st-peter-damian-first-class-vatican","title":"Rare 1st Class Relic of St. Peter Damian + COA, Vatican Sealed 4cm Theca","description":"\u003ch2 dir=\"auto\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eFirst-Class Relic of Saint Peter Damian – Doctor of the Church\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eA rare and \u003cstrong\u003eauthentic first-class relic of Saint Peter Damian (Sanctus Petrus Damianus)\u003c\/strong\u003e, preserved \u003cstrong\u003eex ossibus — “from the bone”\u003c\/strong\u003e — within an elegant silver-colored ecclesiastical theca.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eSaint Peter Damian was a \u003cstrong\u003eDoctor of the Church, Bishop of Ostia, theologian, reformer, and influential advisor to the popes\u003c\/strong\u003e of the 11th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe relic is preserved within a finely detailed \u003cstrong\u003e4 cm theca\u003c\/strong\u003e, sealed with red threads and retaining its \u003cstrong\u003eoriginal Vatican wax seal bearing the coat of arms of Cardinal Lucidus Maria Parocchi, Vicar General of Rome\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe combination of the first-class relic, intact ecclesiastical seal, and original 19th-century documentation makes this a particularly significant example of a documented Catholic relic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe Relic and Reliquary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003efirst-class relic of Saint Peter Damian\u003c\/strong\u003e is classified as \u003cstrong\u003eex ossibus\u003c\/strong\u003e, meaning that it consists of material from the bone of the Saint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe relic is preserved beneath glass in its original \u003cstrong\u003e4 cm silver-colored theca\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe reliquary retains its original red securing threads and \u003cstrong\u003eVatican wax seal\u003c\/strong\u003e, bearing the coat of arms of Cardinal Lucidus Maria Parocchi, who served as Vicar General of Rome.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe intact seal preserves an important original ecclesiastical feature of the reliquary and connects the relic with the historic Roman ecclesiastical tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"auto\"\u003eOriginal 1891 Ecclesiastical Authentica\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe relic is accompanied by its \u003cstrong\u003eoriginal 19th-century authentica document\u003c\/strong\u003e, dated \u003cstrong\u003e16 December 1891\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe document bears the matching registration number:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReg. No. 1080 – 178\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe matching registration number provides an important link between the original ecclesiastical documentation and the relic preserved in the theca.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eTogether, the original document, registration number, intact red threads, and Vatican wax seal provide valuable historical provenance for this \u003cstrong\u003efirst-class relic of Saint Peter Damian\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"auto\"\u003eSaint Peter Damian – Doctor of the Church\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSaint Peter Damian (1007–1072)\u003c\/strong\u003e was one of the most influential Church reformers and theologians of the 11th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eBorn in Ravenna, he entered the religious life and became a Benedictine monk before rising to become \u003cstrong\u003eCardinal-Bishop of Ostia\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003ePeter Damian played a major role in the reform of the medieval Church, advocating greater discipline among the clergy and the renewal of religious life. He was also a trusted advisor to several popes and produced numerous theological and spiritual works.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eHis writings addressed questions of Christian morality, ecclesiastical discipline, monastic life, and spiritual renewal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eIn recognition of his profound contribution to Christian theology and Church reform, Saint Peter Damian was declared a \u003cstrong\u003eDoctor of the Church in 1828\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eHe is traditionally invoked as a patron of \u003cstrong\u003einsomniacs, reformers, and those seeking spiritual renewal\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRelic:\u003c\/strong\u003e Saint Peter Damian\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRelic Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ex ossibus — bone relic\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRelic Class:\u003c\/strong\u003e First class\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod:\u003c\/strong\u003e 19th-century documentation and ecclesiastical reliquary\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReliquary:\u003c\/strong\u003e Silver-colored theca\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiameter:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4 cm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Original Vatican wax seal with Cardinal Parocchi coat of arms\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSecuring:\u003c\/strong\u003e Original red threads intact\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDocumentation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Original ecclesiastical authentica dated 16 December 1891\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRegistration:\u003c\/strong\u003e Reg. No. 1080 – 178\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEcclesiastical Authority:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cardinal Lucidus Maria Parocchi, Vicar General of Rome\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eA rare \u003cstrong\u003efirst-class relic of Saint Peter Damian\u003c\/strong\u003e, Doctor of the Church and Bishop of Ostia, preserved in its original sealed theca and accompanied by its historic 1891 ecclesiastical authentica.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 dir=\"auto\"\u003eYou Will Receive\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003efirst-class relic of Saint Peter Damian\u003c\/strong\u003e in its original 4 cm theca\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOriginal red threads and Vatican wax seal\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOriginal \u003cstrong\u003e1891 ecclesiastical authentica\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMatching registration number \u003cstrong\u003eReg. No. 1080 – 178\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Sacra Relics","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":58590935679311,"sku":null,"price":600.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1035\/5556\/3855\/files\/photo_2026-01-28_13-27-00_2.jpg?v=1787917209"},{"product_id":"1st-class-relic-of-saint-sampson-the-hospitable-bone-relic-with-coa","title":"1st Class Relic of Saint Sampson the Hospitable, Bone Relic with COA","description":"\u003cp\u003eAuthentic 1st Class Relic of Saint Sampson the Hospitable\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eA rare \u003cstrong\u003e1st class relic of Saint Sampson the Hospitable (Sanctus Sampsonis Medici)\u003c\/strong\u003e, preserved \u003cstrong\u003eex ossibus — from the bone of the Saint\u003c\/strong\u003e — within an elegant round Catholic reliquary theca.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe relic is clearly identified with the original label \u003cstrong\u003e“S. Sampsonis Med.”\u003c\/strong\u003e and is preserved beneath glass within its original reliquary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe theca retains its \u003cstrong\u003eoriginal red wax seal and securing threads fully intact\u003c\/strong\u003e, preserving an important ecclesiastical feature of this historic first-class relic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe relic is accompanied by its \u003cstrong\u003eoriginal Certificate of Authenticity (COA)\u003c\/strong\u003e, issued and signed by \u003cstrong\u003eFouad Twal, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem\u003c\/strong\u003e, and dated \u003cstrong\u003e2009\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe Relic and Reliquary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThis \u003cstrong\u003efirst-class relic of St. Sampson the Hospitable\u003c\/strong\u003e is presented in a beautiful circular theca measuring approximately 5 cm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe relic is classified as \u003cstrong\u003eex ossibus\u003c\/strong\u003e, meaning that it consists of material from the bone of the Saint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe original identification label reads:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“S. Sampsonis Med.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe reliquary remains in excellent condition, with its \u003cstrong\u003ered wax seal and threads intact\u003c\/strong\u003e, and is accompanied by its original ecclesiastical documentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"auto\"\u003eOriginal Certificate of Authenticity\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eAn important feature of this relic is its accompanying \u003cstrong\u003eoriginal Certificate of Authenticity dated 2009\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe certificate was issued and signed by \u003cstrong\u003eFouad Twal, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem\u003c\/strong\u003e, providing documented ecclesiastical provenance for the relic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe surviving documentation and intact original seal make this an especially interesting example for collectors and devotees seeking a \u003cstrong\u003edocumented first-class Catholic relic\u003c\/strong\u003e of Saint Sampson.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"auto\"\u003eSaint Sampson the Hospitable\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSaint Sampson the Hospitable\u003c\/strong\u003e was a 6th-century Christian saint, physician, and renowned servant of the sick and poor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eAccording to Christian tradition, Sampson was born into a wealthy family and received an excellent education in medicine. Rather than pursuing a life of wealth and privilege, he dedicated himself to serving those in need.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eHe eventually travelled to Constantinople, where he established a hospice for the poor and sick. His ministry combined medical care with Christian charity, earning him the title \u003cstrong\u003e“the Hospitable.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eSaint Sampson is traditionally venerated as a patron and intercessor of \u003cstrong\u003ephysicians, caregivers, and the sick\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eHis feast is especially celebrated in the Eastern Christian tradition, where he remains an important example of compassionate service and Christian charity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRelic:\u003c\/strong\u003e Saint Sampson the Hospitable\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIdentification:\u003c\/strong\u003e “S. Sampsonis Med.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRelic Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ex ossibus — bone relic\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRelic Class:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1st class\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod:\u003c\/strong\u003e Contemporary reliquary with historic ecclesiastical tradition\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReliquary:\u003c\/strong\u003e Round theca\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTheca Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 5 cm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Original red wax seal and securing threads intact\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDocumentation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Original Certificate of Authenticity dated 2009\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEcclesiastical Authority:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fouad Twal, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eA rare \u003cstrong\u003e1st class relic of Saint Sampson the Hospitable\u003c\/strong\u003e, preserved ex ossibus in a sealed Catholic theca and accompanied by its original certificate issued and signed by the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePresented for private devotion only, in accordance with Canon Law. Not intended for sacrilegious use or resale of the sacred content.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sacra Relics","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":58591185600847,"sku":null,"price":720.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1035\/5556\/3855\/files\/photo_2026-01-28_00-50-56_2.jpg?v=1787917973"},{"product_id":"saints-cosmas-damian-relic-baroque-reliquary","title":"Monumental Baroque Altar-Reliquary with Major Relics of Saints Cosmas and Damian","description":"\u003ch2 dir=\"auto\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eMonumental Baroque Altar-Reliquary with Major Relics of Saints Cosmas and Damian\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eAn extraordinary eighteenth-century \u003cstrong\u003eBaroque altar-reliquary preserving exceptionally large relics of Saints Cosmas and Damian\u003c\/strong\u003e, the Holy Unmercenary Physicians and celebrated Christian martyrs. This monumental Catholic reliquary is accompanied by its \u003cstrong\u003eoriginal Roman ecclesiastical authentication dated 1780\u003c\/strong\u003e, issued under the authority of Dominicus Jordanus, Latin Patriarch of Antioch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eAmong surviving eighteenth-century devotional works, few reliquaries combine such monumental artistic presence, remarkable provenance, and the exceptional rarity of the relics they preserve.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThis magnificent \u003cstrong\u003eBaroque altar-reliquary\u003c\/strong\u003e houses substantial bone relics of Saints Cosmas and Damian, the celebrated twin brothers, physicians, miracle-workers, and martyrs whose names have been venerated throughout Christendom for over seventeen centuries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe relics are displayed within an elaborate architectural shrine richly carved in the \u003cstrong\u003eRoman Baroque tradition\u003c\/strong\u003e. Executed in gilded and polychromed wood, the altar is adorned with intricate openwork foliage, scrolling acanthus ornamentation, and sumptuous embroidered decorations surrounding the sacred relics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eUnlike ordinary Catholic reliquaries containing minute fragments, this monumental shrine preserves \u003cstrong\u003eexceptionally large bone relics\u003c\/strong\u003e, making it an outstanding example of an ecclesiastical reliquary intended for public liturgical veneration rather than private devotion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe reverse of the shrine retains its \u003cstrong\u003eoriginal wax seals\u003c\/strong\u003e, preserving the integrity of the reliquary and its ecclesiastical history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eAccompanying the altar-reliquary is its \u003cstrong\u003eoriginal Roman ecclesiastical authentication dated 1780\u003c\/strong\u003e, issued in Rome under the authority of \u003cstrong\u003eDominicus Jordanus, Latin Patriarch of Antioch\u003c\/strong\u003e, confirming the authenticity and lawful ecclesiastical recognition of the sacred relics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"auto\"\u003eDimensions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAltar-Reliquary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeight: 65 cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWidth: 47 cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDepth: 17 cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"auto\"\u003eSaints Cosmas and Damian\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSaints Cosmas and Damian\u003c\/strong\u003e rank among the most beloved saints of both the Eastern and Western Churches. According to ancient Christian tradition, they were twin brothers born in Arabia during the third century and educated as physicians.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eTheir fame spread throughout the Roman Empire because they practiced medicine without payment, healing rich and poor alike out of Christian charity. For this reason they became known as the \u003cstrong\u003eHoly Unmercenary Physicians (Anargyroi)\u003c\/strong\u003e, refusing earthly reward for their medical service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eTheir healing ministry united physical medicine with Christian charity. Numerous miracles were attributed to them during their lifetime, and many more were reported after their martyrdom. Medieval pilgrims sought their intercession for illnesses of many kinds, while physicians, surgeons, pharmacists, and hospitals adopted them as heavenly patrons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eDuring the persecution of Emperor Diocletian, Cosmas and Damian were arrested for publicly professing the Christian faith. Ancient accounts relate that they endured imprisonment, torture, and numerous attempts at execution before finally receiving the crown of martyrdom by beheading around the year 303 AD.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eTheir cult spread rapidly throughout both the Eastern Byzantine Empire and the Latin West. Churches dedicated to \u003cstrong\u003eSaints Cosmas and Damian\u003c\/strong\u003e appeared in Rome as early as the sixth century, while monasteries, hospitals, and medical institutions throughout Europe were placed under their patronage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eTheir relics have been revered for centuries as powerful symbols of healing, mercy, charity, and unwavering fidelity to Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"auto\"\u003eAn Exceptional Catholic Reliquary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThis \u003cstrong\u003eeighteenth-century Catholic reliquary\u003c\/strong\u003e represents an exceptional combination of sacred history, Baroque craftsmanship, substantial saintly relics, and documented ecclesiastical provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe unusually large relics of \u003cstrong\u003eSaints Cosmas and Damian\u003c\/strong\u003e distinguish this work from smaller private devotional reliquaries. Its monumental architectural form, original wax seals, and surviving Roman ecclesiastical authentication make it a remarkable example of historic Christian devotional art.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe accompanying \u003cstrong\u003e1780 ecclesiastical document\u003c\/strong\u003e provides important provenance for the relics and connects this extraordinary Baroque altar-reliquary with the Roman ecclesiastical tradition of the eighteenth century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"auto\"\u003eKey Details\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRelics:\u003c\/strong\u003e Saints Cosmas and Damian\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRelic Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Major bone relics\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod:\u003c\/strong\u003e 18th century\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Roman Baroque\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Monumental altar-reliquary\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaterial:\u003c\/strong\u003e Gilded and polychromed wood\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDocumentation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Original Roman ecclesiastical authentication dated 1780\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthentication:\u003c\/strong\u003e Issued under the authority of Dominicus Jordanus, Latin Patriarch of Antioch\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOriginal Features:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ecclesiastical wax seals\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 65 × 47 × 17 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eA rare \u003cstrong\u003emonumental Catholic reliquary preserving substantial relics of Saints Cosmas and Damian\u003c\/strong\u003e, the Holy Unmercenary Physicians and traditional patrons of physicians, surgeons, pharmacists, and hospitals.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sacra Relics","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":58816698777935,"sku":null,"price":9300.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1035\/5556\/3855\/files\/photo_2026-06-27_17-33-37_2.jpg?v=1789769255"},{"product_id":"relic-of-st-basil-the-great-gilt-bronze-reliquary","title":"St. Basil the Great Relic | Gilt Bronze Reliquary","description":"\u003ch2 dir=\"auto\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eGilt Bronze Reliquary with a Major Relic of Saint Basil the Great\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eAn exceptional \u003cstrong\u003emajor relic of Saint Basil the Great (Sanctus Basilius Magnus)\u003c\/strong\u003e preserved within a magnificent 19th-century gilt bronze reliquary. Saint Basil is one of the most revered \u003cstrong\u003eFathers of the Eastern Church\u003c\/strong\u003e and is universally recognized by the Catholic Church as a \u003cstrong\u003eDoctor of the Church\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThis imposing ecclesiastical reliquary is executed in richly gilded bronze of remarkable weight and quality. Its elaborate openwork ornamentation, scrolling acanthus foliage, winged angels supporting the central shrine, and triumphal cross crowning the reliquary proclaim the dignity traditionally associated with the relics of the Church's greatest saints.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe monumental design and substantial scale make this an outstanding example of \u003cstrong\u003e19th-century Catholic ecclesiastical craftsmanship\u003c\/strong\u003e, inspired by the exuberant forms of the Roman Baroque.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe Relic and Reliquary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe reliquary preserves an \u003cstrong\u003eexceptionally large relic of Saint Basil the Great\u003c\/strong\u003e, displayed beneath its original crystal viewing window.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe original relic and inscription remain preserved within the shrine, while the substantial gilt bronze construction gives the reliquary an imposing architectural presence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eLarge relics of \u003cstrong\u003eSaint Basil the Great\u003c\/strong\u003e are exceptionally uncommon. Substantial authenticated relics preserved within monumental bronze reliquaries are particularly rare and seldom appear outside important historical ecclesiastical and private collections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe reliquary is accompanied by its \u003cstrong\u003eoriginal Roman ecclesiastical authentication dated 1833\u003c\/strong\u003e, documenting the relic's canonical recognition and ecclesiastical provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"auto\"\u003eSaint Basil the Great\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eFew saints exercised a greater influence upon Christian theology than \u003cstrong\u003eSaint Basil the Great (c. 330–379 AD)\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eBorn into one of Christianity's remarkable holy families in Cappadocia, Basil received an outstanding classical education in Caesarea, Constantinople, and Athens, where he formed a lifelong friendship with Saint Gregory Nazianzen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eRenouncing a distinguished secular career, he embraced the ascetic life before eventually becoming \u003cstrong\u003eBishop of Caesarea\u003c\/strong\u003e, one of the most influential episcopal sees of the Eastern Church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eDuring the theological struggles of the fourth century, Basil became one of the principal defenders of Nicene Christianity against Arianism. His profound writings on the Holy Trinity played an important role in shaping the theological foundations later affirmed at the \u003cstrong\u003eSecond Ecumenical Council\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eHis influence extended far beyond theology. Saint Basil established charitable institutions that were unprecedented in the ancient world, founding hospitals, orphanages, homes for the poor, and centers for the care of travelers and the sick.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eHis great charitable complex near Caesarea became known as the \u003cstrong\u003eBasileias\u003c\/strong\u003e, one of the earliest organized Christian centers of social care.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eAs a monastic reformer, Basil composed the \u003cstrong\u003eRule of Saint Basil\u003c\/strong\u003e, which remains foundational to Eastern Christian monastic tradition. His theological and ascetical writings have profoundly influenced both Eastern and Western Christianity for more than sixteen centuries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eHis works include \u003cem\u003eOn the Holy Spirit\u003c\/em\u003e, the \u003cem\u003eHexaemeron\u003c\/em\u003e, numerous homilies, letters, and ascetical writings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eRecognizing his immense contribution to Christian doctrine, the Catholic Church honors Saint Basil the Great as one of the \u003cstrong\u003eDoctors of the Church\u003c\/strong\u003e, while both Catholics and Orthodox Christians venerate him as one of the greatest Fathers of Christian antiquity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"auto\"\u003eSaint Basil the Great – Father and Doctor of the Church\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eSaint Basil is traditionally associated with the patronage and intercession of:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTheologians\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBishops\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMonastic communities\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTeachers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStudents\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDefenders of orthodox Christian doctrine\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eHis theological writings, pastoral ministry, monastic rule, and charitable work established a lasting legacy throughout Christianity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eA substantial relic of such a major figure of Christian antiquity, preserved in a monumental historic reliquary and accompanied by original 19th-century ecclesiastical documentation, represents an important piece of Christian devotional history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"auto\"\u003eCardinal Placidus Zurla\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe accompanying authentication bears the authority of \u003cstrong\u003eCardinal Placidus (Placido) Zurla, O.S.B. Cam. (1769–1834)\u003c\/strong\u003e, a distinguished churchman and scholar of the early nineteenth century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eCardinal Zurla's ecclesiastical authority and the surviving original documentation provide important historical context and provenance for this \u003cstrong\u003eSaint Basil the Great relic\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRelic:\u003c\/strong\u003e Saint Basil the Great\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRelic Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Major relic\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod:\u003c\/strong\u003e 19th century\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReliquary:\u003c\/strong\u003e Monumental gilt bronze ecclesiastical reliquary\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Roman Baroque-inspired\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eViewing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Original crystal viewing window\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOriginal Features:\u003c\/strong\u003e Relic, inscription and ecclesiastical elements preserved\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDocumentation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Original Roman ecclesiastical authentication dated 1833\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEcclesiastical Authority:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cardinal Placidus (Placido) Zurla, O.S.B. Cam.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 56 × 21 × 15 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eA remarkable \u003cstrong\u003emajor relic of Saint Basil the Great\u003c\/strong\u003e, one of the greatest Fathers and Doctors of the Church, preserved within a monumental gilt bronze reliquary and accompanied by its original \u003cstrong\u003e1833 Roman ecclesiastical authentication\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sacra Relics","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":58816799768911,"sku":null,"price":2316.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1035\/5556\/3855\/files\/photo_2026-06-27_17-50-36.jpg?v=1789771095"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1035\/5556\/3855\/collections\/2026-08-2722.20.37.jpg?v=1787936845","url":"https:\/\/sacrarelics.com\/collections\/reliquaries-thecas.oembed","provider":"Sacra Relics","version":"1.0","type":"link"}