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Description: | A complete lead alloy pilgrim badge of medieval date. The plaque is sub-rectangular with a narrow rectangular section. The upper surface bears moulded decoration of a religious nature. The depiction consists of two figures facing each other. To the left a male figure, presumably a knight, has both arms raised in front of him, the foremost of which holds a sword which appears to be in the act of decapitating the second figure. The second figure has bent knees and bowed head. A legend is present around the central image though is mostly illegible. All that can be determined is "SIG" at the top and "BEAT(N) at the bottom of the right hand edge. The scene is likely to represent the martyrdom of Thomas Becket. Thomas Becket was archbishop of Canterbury in the 12th century and clashed with King Henry II over the rights and privileges of the Church. On the 29 December 1170, four knights, believing the king wanted Becket removed, confronted and murdered Becket in Canterbury Cathedral.Becket was canonised in 1173 and his shrine in Canterbury Cathedral became an important focus for pilgrimage and numerous pilgrim souvenirs were issued in commemoration of him.The metal has a dark-grey patina and is worn. the badge is 45.7mm long, 34.5mm wide, 1.3mm thick and weighs 11g.
Original Image | Publisher: | http://finds.org.uk | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Identifier: | https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/ | Go to resource |
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