This is a beautiful 1800's relic casket relic. It is called a casket relic because the actual relic slides out of a casket to protect the seal on the back. This relic as seen is
"Ex Cilicio
B. J of Cap"
Simply ut this is a relic of "Ex Cilicio" meaning of hair or cloth. This can be seen in the upper center of the relic. Based on my examination I believe it to be cloth. The next line of the relic "B. J of Cap" can be a little trickier to read. B on a relic stands for "Blessed". The J could mean the name of the STE. In this case Joseph. Of Cap could mean he was a capuchin monk. From my research I gathered that there are many saints and blesseds who were Capuchin monks, including STE JOSEPH. Saint Joseph of Leonessa was Known for the purity and austerity of his life. I can't be 100% positive that this is correct but I have found no other information on this piece that would make me think otherwise.
This relic measures 1.75" x 1.2" and is about .50" deep. It is in FABULOUS condition and was made long ago with serious craftmanship. Around the relic is a single row of paperolle with gold beadwork framing the inside. The relic of "Ex Cilicio" is on the top with the fine script below. I can see nothing at all wrong with this relic. The seal on the back is in SUPERB condition and the original cotton to protect the seal is still in place. If I am correct this would be considered a 2nd class relic and a rare piece indeed.
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