This is a closeup view of the relic of St. Ignatius
Loyola. The actual bone chip is on the star shaped design at the top. The
silver filigree work, and the stones set this locket or "theca"
apart from the more common, less ornate variety. But it's most distinguishing
feature is the hand painted artwork inside. Almost always done by dedicated,
saintly nuns, it would be hard to imagine anything like it today; given
the lack of religious vocations in the Church and the amount of time and
labor involved.
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