The cross-form box engraved on both sides various
Christian emblems :
the hinged cover centering a flaming heart within a crown of thorns
below the bag of 30 and between a hammer and pliers,
and above a chalice and stacked containers of oils for anointing;
the
case verso inscribed "IHS" to the center with three nails,
above a rooster and the scourging pillar,
the cover having a revolving latch at the base and suspensory ring above;
the
interior opening to reveal a red velvet lining, and ink annotation "St. Optate"
on parchment,
with remnants of parchment and paper mounts affixing minute unidentified
ancient relics
Mackelvie Trust Collection,
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki
St.
Optate was the bishop of Milevis in Africa and a convert from paganism.
He lived during the time of the Donatists
heresy, which started in 311, lasting 100 years.
He wrote several treaties during his lifetime,
emphasizing the unity and universality of the Catholic Church.
Based on the fact that St. Peter was the first
successor to Jesus,
he argued that the Holy See
could not be confined to Africa.
He argued against the "Donatist"
teaching that baptism outside the Church was not valid.
St. Optate confirmed that the sacrament is only
dependent on the grace of God, not on the minister.
These
writings greatly influenced St. Augustine, who also lived during this time.
St. Optate died in the year 397. His feast day
is June 4.
The Symbols :
The bag of money symbolizes either
almsgiving to the poor or the betrayal of Jesus for 30 coins of silver.
The hammer symbolizes Jesus being nailed
to the cross.
The chalice contained the wine.
The stacked containers contained oils
for anointing.
The pliers symbolize the removal of the
nails of Christ on the cross.
The center is the crown of thorns of
Jesus.
The heart in the center of the crown of
thorns shows the Sacred Heart of Jesus
being pierced on the cross after his death.
The rooster relates to 'before the cock
crows'
The scourging pillar is the pillar upon
which Jesus was flailed.
Condition : Excellent
3.1" Long / 0.8 oz
SOLD
