Miniature reproduction of the Msgr. de Laval’s pectoral cross

The cross shown here is a reproduction of the “reliquary cross” worn by Msgr. de Laval. Of sober design, it bore the following engraved inscriptions:
-on the front: the monogram IHS, the H surmounted by a cross, similar to the seal of the Society of Jesus, which borrows their histogram IHS Iesus, Hominum Salvator: Jesus, Saviour of Men but transforms it to Iesum Habemus Socium (we have Jesus as our companion); this indicates his debt to the Jesuits, who provided him with his initial training and spiritual inspiration; on the reverse, the monogram MA for Mater Amabilis (loving Mother), addressed to the Holy Virgin, for whom the bishop felt a deep love. He dedicated his cathedral to the Immaculate Conception.