Religious antiques can come in many different forms. Whether remnants of a ceremony or treasured items, every religion has their valued antiques.

Significance

The significance of religious collectables  greatly depends on two major factors. The first is whether the religious item in question was perceived as holy or emblematic. The second is whether or not the religion is defunct.

Holiness

Items perceived as holy often bear additional value in the modern day. For example, the proliferation of Russian religious icons, produced by the Orthodox faithful, are emblematic of faith, rather than holy themselves. This allows for greater proliferation, as many artisans could paint icons. Totem poles, on the other hand, were often considered to be holy in themselves, making them a cherished antique of the Pacific Native American religions.

Continuity

Many religious antiques of defunct religions have taken on an archaeological importance and interest. While Egyptian statuary and artifacts are highly prized, they are no longer worshiped by anyone living, making them of aesthetic and historical value. However, relics of the Crusades, even dubious ones such as the bones of Saints, continue to be displayed in churches with a great deal of religious importance attached

Age

Religious antiques can vary greatly in age. Archaeologists have discovered African deities and Zoroastrian remnants that are thousands of years old. However, religious antiques could also include the Bibles and material used by traveling preachers of early 20th century America.

Types

There are four main types of religious antiques. The first is statuary, which was often used in group ceremonies and religious institutions. Then, there are personal emblems, such as rosaries and skullcaps. There are also holy remnants of important figures and events, such as the preserved hands of revered Buddhist monks or the whiskers of Muhammad, which are held in a mosque in Istanbul. Finally, there are texts and drawings, including icons, prayer books and Talmudic materials.