Reliquary theca with relic of Saint Paul, the Apostle of Christ

An oval crystal-fronted silver pendant reliquary theca housing a precious first-class ex ossibus (of the bone) relic of Saint Paul the Apostle​. The relic is displayed on the ground of gold silk and identified in Latin on an ornate manuscript cedula label as S. Pauli / Apostoli (Saint Paul, Apostle). On the back, the reliquary is secured by a perfectly preserved seal of red Spanish wax bearing an imprint with a coat of arms of the Archdiocese of Milan. 

Saint Paul the Apostle​ († 64–67) was born around 5 AD in Tarsus, Cilicia (modern Turkey). A Roman citizen and zealous Pharisee, he initially persecuted early Christians. His life changed dramatically on the road to Damascus when the risen Christ appeared to him, leading to his conversion around 33–36. He became the Apostle to the Gentiles, undertaking three major missionary journeys across the Roman Empire, founding churches, and writing 13 letters that form a large part of the New Testament. He was martyred by beheading in Rome around 64–67under Nero. He is the patron saint of Missionaries, Theologians, Evangelists, Writers, journalists, authors, and publishers, Gentile Christians, Malta, tentmakers, rope/saddle makers, and public workers. His main feast day is commemorated on June 29 (Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul).