Pilgrim sign crowned heart 'Amours' Valenciennes, 14th century, silvered bronze

Product description

This sign in the shape of a crowned heart with the banderole text 'Amours' is modeled on a French pilgrim sign from the period 1350-1424, which is now kept in the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Valenciennes.

The inscription 'Amours' (love) appears more often on medieval signs and indicates use as a love gift. The heart symbol itself goes back to stylized fig and ivy leaves from ancient times, and appeared increasingly in love scenes from the 12th-13th century courtly love literature onwards - from where it spread as a love symbol throughout Europe.

Equipped with a sturdy needle on the back to attach to clothing; suitable as a love gift or accessory for a medieval outfit.