Beautiful antique Canivet relic I purchased in Ouest, France, circa early 1800s. This is a canivet card relic. A "canivet" card is an art form associated with small holy pictures, probably originating in France in the 13th century or thereabouts. In this craft, the holy pictures are created in a form of needlework using chromo, textiles, and a variety of other materials. The French and Italians are famous for this type of art.
Works of art such as this were left almost exclusively in the hands of monks and nuns in medieval monasteries and convents. They used to craft them as expressions of Christian faith and spiritual exercises, going beyond prayers. Today, it is commonplace, and we might call it a flat mixed-media piece.
This piece was most likely framed, but the frame is no longer present. This piece is beyond stunning, measuring 3.7" x 2.4". Over time, these will become increasingly difficult to find.
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