An Exquisite And Extremely Rare Antique Italian Holy Spirit, Carved Wood, 1600's

This is an exquisite and extremely rare antique Italian Holy Spirit that dates from the 17th century. Discovered recently in the Netherlands this exceptional and ancient treasure is hand carved from wood and gilded in silver - that through its impressive age - has gained a timeworn patina of mesmerizing beauty and splendour. The open winged dove has a Sacred Heart on its chest with rays of light surrounding a glass window. Most certainly this was once a depository or a reliquary for a saint's relic. The "heart window" is removable so that a small precious object could be placed today inside the Holy Spirit if desired. Created with a great attention to detail this magnificent treasure measures about 24.5 x 42 x 10 cm or approximately 9.6 x 16.5 x 4 inches. It is in lovely antique condition with signs of ageing mainly seen in its outstanding patina. It is exactly as I discovered it. For the full condition please refer to the images!