Pilgrim badge vulva on horseback, silvered bronze

Product description

This extraordinary medieval badge is based on a historical model from the late Middle Ages, discovered in the Netherlands and dating back to 1375–1425 AD. So-called obscene-erotic badges were widespread in Northern Europe during this period, particularly in Belgium and the Netherlands, and were often associated with carnival festivities, serving as humorous and provocative accessories. The design features a crowned vulva riding a horse, holding a flagellum in one hand and a crossbow in the other, parodying the Virgin Mary.

The badge is crafted from high-quality bronze and includes an eye on the back for versatile wear, whether around the neck, attached to clothing, or secured to a robe. Measuring 3.1 x 2.1 cm, it matches the dimensions of the historical original. Its playful design allowed wearers to use it both as a bold statement piece and as a conversation starter, particularly during the vibrant and indulgent carnival season.

Obscene-erotic pilgrimage badges like this one represent a distinct category of medieval profane art. They often depicted personified genitalia, such as a vulva riding a horse, a winged vulva, or scenes involving phalli. These designs likely aimed to diffuse the taboo of sexuality through humor and served as joking love tokens or playful tools for sparking conversation, particularly in contexts that encouraged social and sexual openness, such as carnivals.

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