Reliquary bust of a companion of Saint Ursula

Reliquaries that take the shape of a part of the human body, especially bust reliquaries, were common in the Middle Ages. This is part of a mass production associated with the veneration of Saint Ursula and her companions, who were martyred in Cologne. Openings on the top of the head and at the front allowed the relics contained in this chamber to be seen, and perhaps touched.

A smile can be seen on the round face. This figure represents a young girl. Indeed, only young girls are depicted with long hair without any headdress.