Box - Reliquary Box - 1890 - Bronze






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Description from the seller
French Bronze and Beveled Crystal Glass Relic Box, circa 1890 – Original Silk Cushion Interior
A rare and evocative French reliquary-style casket dating to circa 1890, crafted in bronze and topped with a beautifully beveled crystal glass viewing panel.
This charming devotional object reflects the refined decorative arts of the late 19th century, when small religious and commemorative boxes were made with exceptional care and detail.
The rectangular bronze body is richly decorated on all sides with finely worked floral and foliate scroll motifs, giving the piece an elegant and distinguished appearance. The hinged lid is fitted with a thick faceted crystal glass panel, allowing a view into the interior without opening the box — a characteristic feature often associated with relic and keepsake caskets of the period.
Inside, the box retains its original green silk tufted cushion lining, beautifully aged over time and adding greatly to its authenticity and historical character. The casket stands on four rounded feet, creating a graceful elevated profile.
Such boxes were traditionally used to preserve cherished devotional items, relics, or personal keepsakes, making this a highly atmospheric collector’s piece with both decorative and historical appeal.
Condition:
In very good antique condition with age-related signs of use consistent with its age.
The beveled crystal glass lid is also in good condition.
The original silk interior shows honest wear and patina, enhancing the authentic period character. Hinges and closure function properly.
The bronze has developed a beautiful natural patina over time.
Dimensions:
4.7 x 8.5 x 6.5 cm (height x width x depth)
Weight:
220 g
A charming and genuine late 19th-century French devotional casket with beautiful original details and remarkable presence.
Seller's Story
French Bronze and Beveled Crystal Glass Relic Box, circa 1890 – Original Silk Cushion Interior
A rare and evocative French reliquary-style casket dating to circa 1890, crafted in bronze and topped with a beautifully beveled crystal glass viewing panel.
This charming devotional object reflects the refined decorative arts of the late 19th century, when small religious and commemorative boxes were made with exceptional care and detail.
The rectangular bronze body is richly decorated on all sides with finely worked floral and foliate scroll motifs, giving the piece an elegant and distinguished appearance. The hinged lid is fitted with a thick faceted crystal glass panel, allowing a view into the interior without opening the box — a characteristic feature often associated with relic and keepsake caskets of the period.
Inside, the box retains its original green silk tufted cushion lining, beautifully aged over time and adding greatly to its authenticity and historical character. The casket stands on four rounded feet, creating a graceful elevated profile.
Such boxes were traditionally used to preserve cherished devotional items, relics, or personal keepsakes, making this a highly atmospheric collector’s piece with both decorative and historical appeal.
Condition:
In very good antique condition with age-related signs of use consistent with its age.
The beveled crystal glass lid is also in good condition.
The original silk interior shows honest wear and patina, enhancing the authentic period character. Hinges and closure function properly.
The bronze has developed a beautiful natural patina over time.
Dimensions:
4.7 x 8.5 x 6.5 cm (height x width x depth)
Weight:
220 g
A charming and genuine late 19th-century French devotional casket with beautiful original details and remarkable presence.
