Pilgrim sign winged figure with crown, 14th-15th century, bronze

Product description

This pendant is modeled after a special late medieval pewter sign from the Netherlands, dating between 1375 and 1425 and part of the Van Beuningen collection. It shows a winged figure with a crown and a bell, dressed in a wide trousers and shoes.

These types of profane, humorous signs were widespread in the Low Countries, England and other Northern European regions in the late Middle Ages and were mainly worn during carnival time. Researchers see these playful, worldly signs — in addition to images of saints on official pilgrim signs — as a way to keep intercourse between the sexes light and accessible through humor.

A curious piece of medieval folk culture, suitable for sewing onto clothing just like the original or wearing it on a cord as a pendant.