Large early 17th century Spanish reliquary medallion. (c. 1610-1630).
Parcel-gilt silver case with eight openwork scrolling elements attached to a cord design with engraved frames on both sides. Within the case are 2 convex reverse-painted rock crystals.

93 x 75 x 14 mm

One side shows a half-length figure in profile. While it is somewhat obscured by deterioration in paint, the gold lines still remain outlining the scene. Based on several documented pieces in museums, it may represent St. James the Great, Patron Saint of Spain. Additional published works are known to portray St. Theresa of Avila and her Vision of the Dove, St. Ursula and St. John. Only partial gilt painting remains on the reverse, now revealing an early hand-tinted print of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
While the construction and decoration of the case appears to be Spanish, the style of painting indicates origins in the Spanish Hapsburg controlled Lombardy region of Italy(Duchy of Milan) - exhibiting simplified Italian Renaissance aesthetics and common pictorial themes. A piece like this would have painted crystal plates made in Milan, that would then be sent to Barcelona for a fitted case.

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