Silver pendant with an illuminated miniature, France 16th century

A silver pendant set with an illuminated miniature.

French, 16th century.

Measures 5.9 x 4.7 x 1.4cm.

The glazed silver pendant contains illuminated miniatures to each side, one side depicts Saint Roch and the other Saint Matthew. The silver frame has a fixed bale to to the top, the sides adorned with a twisted silver wire decoration.

Saint Roch (c. 1348–1379) is a Catholic saint, revered as the patron of plague victims, dogs, and the sick. Born in Montpellier, France, he devoted his life to caring for those suffering from the plague. According to legend, he contracted the disease himself but was miraculously healed with the help of a dog that brought him food and licked his wounds. He is often depicted with a pilgrim’s staff, a dog by his side, and a wound on his leg. His feast day is celebrated on August 16.

Saint Matthew was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus and the traditional author of the Gospel of Matthew. Before following Jesus, he was a tax collector, known as Levi. He is considered the patron saint of accountants, bankers, and tax collectors. His gospel emphasizes Jesus as the Messiah and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. According to tradition, he preached in various regions, including Ethiopia and Persia, before being martyred. His feast day is celebrated on September 21.