中世纪 锡 den Bosch Pilgrim badge - 在橱窗中陈列

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Medieval lead-alloy openwork pilgrim badge from ’s-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch), of shield-shaped form, with two suspension loops above and a beaded border framing a central devotional scene. The design shows a crowned standing Virgin Mary with Child and sceptre, flanked by John and the miracle tree, with votive offerings above her head, including a leg, chains, and a ship, all in a finely cast openwork composition.

The badge will be delivered in a protective display case with viewing window. The case is suitable for display or storage, opens via a simple push-to-open mechanism, and can be reused.

-> Pilgrim badges from ’s-Hertogenbosch were worn as visible signs of devotion and pilgrimage. They served both as sacred souvenirs and as expressions of personal faith. These badges were worn on hats or cloaks as proof of pilgrimage and as protective charms. A genuine piece of medieval devotion, carrying the history of one of the most important cult centres in the medieval Low Countries.

Display window: ± 9 x 9 cm
Ref: Heilig en Profaan, H.J.E. van Beuningen, p. 2212, afb. 455

Condition: very good, rare. Signs of wear consistent with age and use.
Last image: unknown source, showing a pilgrim en route with several badges sewn onto his hat.

Certificate of Authenticity: available upon request (pdf-format).

-> The shrine of ’s-Hertogenbosch became famous in the late Middle Ages through the cult of the Zoete Lieve Vrouw, the Sweet Virgin Mary, whose miraculous image in St John’s church attracted large numbers of pilgrims from across the Low Countries and beyond. The shrine developed into one of the most important regional pilgrimage centres, where visitors came to pray for protection, healing, and intercession, and often took home pilgrim badges as devotional souvenirs of their journey.

-> Pilgrim badges
From the 12th to the 16th century, small pewter badges (lead-tin alloy) were sold to pilgrims visiting holy sites across Europe. Wearing such a badge was a public sign showing one had completed a pilgrimage to a sacred sign or relic. The badges were also believed to offer spiritual protection. The badges had little loops or pins so they could be sewn onto hats or cloaks.

Most badges show religious symbols, depicting the Virgin Mary, Saints, or miracle-working objects.
A special category were humorous or secular badges (profane badges), with a humorous or erotic theme.

Today, these special objects are prized as tangible relics of medieval devotion and travel.
Pilgrims wear or carry badges from a religious site as a sign of their pilgrimage, often attaching it to their clothing or backpacks.