reliquary

Containers, usually made of precious materials and elaborately decorated, for the relics of a saint.

Reliquary of Pepin, c.1000 — Known as the "Reliquary of Pepin," this beautiful golden casket actually dates from about the year 1000. However, pieces of an earlier crucifixion scene were found inside, which may date to Pepin's time (817-38). One side of the reliquary depicts a Crucifixion scene in gold, while the other has two doves. Image credit: David Joyal

Quick Facts on reliquary

Go Historic ID

259

Getty AAT ID

300187549

Term Type

object (non-fine-art) type (e.g. hats)

Child Terms

speaking reliquarieschasse reliquaries