Northwestern Europe, England, Medieval to late Medieval Period, ca. 12th to 15th century CE. A superb collection of 6 leaded pewter pilgrim and livery badges. Included are 2 Yorkist sun heraldry emblems to use as a livery badge to show allegiance with English monarchs, and a lion passant retainer badge that was another royal symbol of the English monarchy. The pilgrimage badges include a pewter crucifix with Christ and twin roundels at the end of each arm, a circular disc with seated figures enthroned - perhaps Christ and Mary, and a pilgrimage glove of Saint Thomas Becket from Canterbury Cathedral where Becket was martyred. Size (sun livery badge): 1.25" Diameter (3.2 cm)
People of the Middle Ages went on pilgrimages to the tomb of a saint, or a site where relics of a saint(s) were venerated. The pilgrim might pray at a shrine in order to thank the saint for miraculous healing or a cure. However, for some, the journey itself was a means of purification. In addition to voluntary pilgrimages, some pilgrimages were a form of punishment imposed by the courts or the Church. A person might have been ordered to make a pilgrimage to Rome for example, remain there for several years, and bring back some evidence, such as a badge. Besides wearing a voluminous cloak (the pelerine) and a large hat with a wide brim, carrying a wooden pilgrim's staff, a scrip (a pilgrim's flask) and a rosary, the most important signs of a pilgrim were the pewter pilgrims' badges he pinned to his hat, scrip, or cloak. At every pilgrimage site, a pilgrim could acquire a pilgrims' badge sold as a consecrated souvenir of the sacred place, just as they can do this today.
Provenance: ex-estate of Eldert Bontekoe, Pegasi Numismatics, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA acquired before 2000
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#158709
Condition
Losses to the top arm of the crucifix. Becket gloves are not attached to each other and split apart down the middle. Losses to lion legs and softening of details. Pins and clasps are missing on all. Nice patina throughout.