Reliquary Casket of 1438

CNG 96, Lot: 1062. Estimate $2000. Sold for $1500. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

GERMANY, Uncertain. PB Reliquary casket (scrinium). Manufactured by Jacob Pill or Piel (Jacobus Pyel). Dated 1438 (in Roman numerals). Lead reliquary casket consisting of two parts (box and lid), each made of a lead, with lid inscribed in Medieval script on both top and underside. Top inscription is in two hands, the first (the hand of the manufacturer or a member of his workshop) reading iacob pill/Jacobus Pyel parauit/scriniu istud (Jacob Pill/Jacobus Pyel prepared/this casket); the second (by a member of the church), inverted in relation to the first, reading In suma altari (in the high altar). Underside inscription, also in Medieval script and in the hand of the manufacturer or a member of his workshop reads (annulet) cccc (annulet) xxx viii with inscribed shield above. Box portion contains a led tray and small lead box inscribed georg/pamphyliy (?). Small box contains a number of relics, a partial uniface wax seal, a small fragment of medieval clay pot, and particles of myrrh. Among the relics are three cloth pouches, one of which is not opened. The other two are still sealed and have a piece of vellum tape inscribed in Medieval script attached. One says de monte calvarie (from the Mount of Calvary); the other de lacte bte vrgs marie (from the milk of the blessed Virgin Mary). Partial uniface wax seal shows bishop in episcopal regalia with partial legend in banner around s’ M(?) iohis (...) (seal of master Johannis [(...)]); traces of fingerprints left during molding process on back. Overall weight: 1248.30g; overall dimensions (including lid) 112x130x59mm. As made, dark brown patina, lid and box show traces of solder and attachments. An interesting piece of late Medieval German pre-reformation church history.