Relic of Saint Pelagia of Antioch (Pelagia the Penitent)

Relic of Saint Pelagia of Antioch (Pelagia the Penitent)

Early 19th century (dated 1882)
Belgium – Mechelen (Malines)

An exceptional large reliquary containing a substantial bone fragment (part of the pelvis) of Saint Pelagia of Antioch, enclosed in an ornate wooden and gilded reliquary chest. The relic is clearly labeled “S. Pelagiae Antioch.” (Sanctae Pelagiae Antiochensis) and sealed behind glass.

The reliquary is richly carved with Baroque-style scrollwork, gilded decoration, and retains its original red wax episcopal seals at the back. The piece is accompanied by its original episcopal authentica, issued by Victor-Augustus-Isidore Cardinal Deschamps, Primate of Belgium and Archbishop of Mechelen, dated 1882. The document confirms the authentication and canonical sealing of the relic, allowing its exposition for public veneration.

Saint Pelagia of Antioch, also known as Pelagia the Penitent (4th century), was a celebrated Christian ascetic and hermitess. Originally a famous actress and courtesan in Antioch, she underwent a profound conversion after hearing a sermon by Bishop Nonnus. Renouncing her former life, she disguised herself as a man under the name Pelagius, and lived in repentance on the Mount of Olives near Jerusalem, where she died in holiness. She is venerated both in the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions, commemorated on October 8.

Dimensions:

• Height: 42 cm
• Width: 42 cm
• Depth: 22 cm

Materials:

• Carved and gilded wood
• Glass
• Bone relic
• Cloth label
• Episcopal wax seals

Provenance:

Belgium, Archdiocese of Mechelen.

Document:

Original Latin authentica signed and sealed by the Primate of Belgium, 1882.

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