New Orleans Religious Items

Rock Crystal and Gold Agnus Dei Late 16th, early 17th century Case made in Milan Agnus Dei in wax from the Vatican Among the most significant religious artifacts of the Renaissance, the Agnus Dei medallion exemplifies the height of Catholic devotional culture. Believed to hold sacramental blessings and even miraculous power, these sacred wax objects were crafted from the melted remains of the Paschal candle used in Rome and personally blessed by the Pope. Their rarity was compounded by their fragility—few survived intact, making them among the most coveted religious items of their time. This extraordinary example, dating from the late 16th to early 17th century, defied the odds of survival. Encased in its original rock crystal and gold setting, among the most luxurious materials available when it was made, the wax itself features subtle yet remarkably preserved imprints—an almost impossible feat given its delicate nature. It is the only known example outside of a museum, with possibly two others in institutional collections. Made for a patron of exceptional wealth, this late Renaissance masterpiece marries religious significance with extraordinary craftsmanship. The oval rock crystal frame encases the wax Agnus Dei, encircled by exquisite gold mounting with black enamel detailing and twisted gold cord. Rock crystal caryatids shaped as dog heads with gold collars transition into female busts that curve into scrolls, resting on teardrop elements adorned with vibrant enamel. Two elegant gold scrolls wrap around back-to-back dog muzzles at the top, crowned by an enamel-decorated knob and suspension ring—creating a devotional object of unparalleled artistic refinement. The fragile composition of Agnus Dei medallions meant that most were easily damaged—cracking, collecting dirt or crumbling over time. Their pristine whiteness held such sacred significance that in 1572, Pope Gregory XIII issued a Papal Bull...

Antique French Carved Walnut "Prie Dieu" or Prayer Chair, Circa 1880.

Exceptional size antique 19th century oil on canvas painting of The Assumption in original carved gold-leaf frame.

Antique early 19th century Greek original icon painted and brass inlaid panel with presentation info on the side.

Rare Antique French Gold Bronze, Enamel & Rouge Marble "Benetier" Holy Water Font. Exquisite French Workmanship

Antique French Onyx & Cloisonné Benetier "Holy Water Font", Circa 1920's.

Beautifully Carved and Parcel Gilt Lecturn with original Iron Lights

Antique 18th Century French Provincial Prie Dieu chair.

A lovely water font with an unusual silver and gold orthodox church center medallion.