casket with cover

casket with cover , late 1800s

Where object was made: France

Material/technique: metal; enamel; wood; gilding

Dimensions:
Object Height/Width/Depth (Height x Width x Depth): 11.4 x 20.3 x 17.8 cm
Object Height/Width/Depth (Height x Width x Depth): 4 1/2 x 8 0.99213 x 7 1/2 in

Credit line: William Bridges Thayer Memorial

Accession number: 1928.3454

Not on display

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Mobile Memory

The house-like form of the reliquary box was meant to mimic the shape of a church or tomb. Though often used to hold important relics of deceased holy people, these small ornamental boxes could also store jewelry, letters, or other personal effects and were sometimes given as wedding gifts. The metal panels of this box are decorated with enameled imagery depicting Biblical scenes. These durable materials have helped maintain the integrity of this centuries-old piece, protecting the cherished objects once stored inside.