Antique Russian Orthodox Devotional Reliquary with Handcrafted Goldwork & Marian Icon – 19th Century

A rare antique Russian devotional reliquary featuring a central image of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Child, surrounded by intricate handcrafted goldwork, delicate paper filigree, beads, and floral ornamentation.

The oval composition is mounted on an aged textile ground and richly decorated with fine metallic threads, twisted gold-tone wire, small beads and ornamental elements. The central Marian image is framed by a deep green beaded border, while an aged devotional inscription is preserved beneath the decorative bow.

The sides retain their original aged paper decoration with printed text, adding to the historical character of this remarkable piece.

The reverse is covered with an old silver-coloured protective backing. The object shows genuine signs of age, including surface wear, discoloration, losses to some decorative elements and areas of aged textile and paper. These imperfections are consistent with its antique character and should be considered part of the piece's history.

Approximate dimensions:
Height: 8 cm
Width: 6–6.5 cm
Depth: approximately 2 cm

Period: 19th century, possibly late 19th / early 20th century
Origin: Russia / Russian devotional tradition
Materials: textile, paper, metallic thread, wirework, glass or stone beads and devotional print

A beautiful and highly unusual piece for collectors of Russian religious art, antique devotional objects, reliquaries and ecclesiastical history.