Large silver gilt and rock crystal reliquary pendant. Spanish, 17th century

A large silver gilt and rock crystal reliquary pendant.

Spanish, first half of the 17th century.

Measures 15.6 x 8.2 x 2.3cm.

Weighs 116.7 grams.

The large, round pendant is glazed to each side with clear cabochons of rock crystal, with dogs-tooth settings containing silver and gold decorative wirework framing central relics further decorated with wirework and seed pearls. Each relic has a blue banner of parchment, which would have displayed the name of the Saint whose relic is contained, now faded. The silver gilt frame is decorated with Renaissance scrolls and turned pendant drops, suspended by three chains, two of which with ring-biting lion heads which connect to a central pendant bail.