The Diocese of León, directed by Monsignor Sócrates René Sándigo, reported that the Italian researcher Xavier F. Salomon is carrying out studies in the Cathedral of León to indicate if the relics of the church are works of the renowned Italian goldsmith and jeweler Luigi Valadier (1726 -1785).
The religious temple, in a press release, announced that “as a result of the first observations, Dr. Salomon has been able to verify and point out to the attendees that: twelve candelabra, two monstrances (the rococo monstrance and the small monstrance that was believed to be a replica) , a chalice, a ciborium and “very probably the nine reliquaries, including the Lignum Crucis, are works of the goldsmith Luigi Valadier”.
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According to the ecclesiastical authorities, Xavier F. Salomon has extensive experience in the area of art and, for this reason, has managed to determine that some pieces could be part of the work of the famous goldsmith.
“All these sacred objects are part of the treasures belonging to the Cathedral of León,” stressed the Diocese.
In addition, he explained that on the morning of June 7, Salomon revealed these preliminary conclusions in the art gallery of the Cathedral of León, with the presence of the Clergy and the businessman Ramiro Ortiz Mayorga, who collaborates with the temple.
The famous Luigi Valadier “was the pre-eminent Roman silversmith of the 18th century, a maker of gilt bronze, marble, and hard stone objects; and exquisite centerpieces,” according to the art museum Frick Collection.
Also, the Italian goldsmith produced his works “for the popes, royalty and aristocrats of Rome, as well as of France, England, Spain and Portugal, and they were considered the ultimate luxury in the 18th century.”
For its part, the Diocese of León invites the media to the press conference scheduled for next Thursday, June 9, where they will present the investigative work carried out by Xavier F. Salomon.
