Vintage Reliquary Pendant with Relics of Saint Joseph & Saint Mary Magdalene

A rare antique reliquary pendant containing devotional relics identified by their original handwritten Latin labels: S. Joseph Spons. (Saint Joseph, Spouse) and S. M. Mag. (Saint Mary Magdalene). Each relic rests on its traditional silk ground and is framed with finely curled gilt devotional paper beneath original glass.

This type of reliquary traditionally holds a minute devotional relic fragment — often a small thread, piece of cloth, or occasionally a tiny particle of bone — attributed to each saint and preserved as a sign of honour and spiritual intercession.

• Saint Joseph — revered as the spouse of the Virgin Mary and guardian of the Holy Family. He represents protection, humility, discernment, and quiet strength.
• Saint Mary Magdalene — the biblical disciple of Christ, witness to His Resurrection and a symbol of devotion, repentance, and courageous faith.

On the reverse, the interior red-wax ecclesiastical seal remains intact inside the back casing. The chain shown is modern and included for wear, but not original to the reliquary.

Reliquary size: H 4.8cm x W 4.5cm
Chain length: L 48.2 cm
Origin: Italy
Period: 18th–19th century
One of a kind.