in ecclesiastical writers, a linen cloth or veil put over the tombs of the apostles St Peter and St Paul, and left there for some time; by which it is supposed to acquire a degree of sanctity, so as to be worshipped as a relic; and for that purpose frequently sent by the pope as a present to some prince. In this sense, Brandeum amounts to the same with what was otherwise called janctuarium, fidarium, orarium, and velum. The use of brandea was introduced as a means of diffusing and propagating the virtues and influences of relics, without moving, or any way impairing, the substance of them; the translation of relics in early days being forbidden.