RARE LARGE Nineteenth Century Monastery Double Sided Paperolle Relic with Agnus Dei Wax Medallions

This is an exceptional example of paperolle monastery work which is suspended between two thick pieces of glass. It originates from a fine religious collection in Paris and dates towards 1880.

This is a unique piece which holds two Agnes Dei Wax Medallions. (An Agnus DeI is a sacramental which consists of small medallions made with the wax of the paschal candles.) It is a very large work, measuring 9" x 7 3/4" and 1" thick. The very intricate paperolle design is an amazing work of small design motifs which include arabesques, circles and scrolls. Each small piece is the result of a single strand of paper which is twisted around a small tool to form a tight scrolling shape. This work was time consuming and delicate. Clusters of grapes are mimicked by very tight rolls of paper which give the appearance of gilt beads. Flowers are treated in the same manner, formed of tightly rolled papers which mimic petals. The center of the flowers has a green foil circle which appears as a brilliant green rhinestone. Encircling the front wax medallion, red and gold foil is used inside the round circular shapes, giving the appearance of ruby and gilt rhinestones. The wax medallion on the front bears a beautiful depiction of Christ. The wax medallion on the back portrays the Paschal Risen Lamb. The wax medallions are large, measuring 3" x 2 1/2". The details in each medallion are absolutely exquisite, especially when viewed under a light.

The spectacular monastery work is sandwiched under two thick pieces of glass. The glass pieces were then sealed with a paper board frame which folds over the top and bottom glass. Dresden paper was applied to the front and back edges (much missing paper pieces).

Monastery work paperolle relics and reliquaries are exceptionally individual. Each one is a precious labor of love by a person who has dedicated their life in service to Christ. These pieces eminate peace and love and are powerful pieces. This gorgeous and unusual relic is the keeper of two holy religious ceremony medallions. It is an exquisite example of nineteenth century French monastery work.