Spanish Medieval Socarrat Wall Tile Showing Saints Cosmas and Damian

The first a circular badge of St John the Baptist, his severed head depicted on the circular plate with small loop for attachment at the top, inscription reading 'SIGNVM S’ IOhIS BABTIS' with a horizontal stroke to the 'h' so that it doesbles as a cross; a small badge of the Archangel Michael, shown fully armored and holding a sword above his head having bested Satan in personal combat; the final badge in the form of a dolphin, a secular piece likely worn by a follower of the French Dauphiné Charles V. 10.5 grams total, 24-38 mm



Former Forgeais (1822-1878) collection, France, thence by family descent. Arthur Forgeais was a noted 19th-century French archaeologist. Born in 1822 in the city of Paris, Forgeais held a special interest and specialism in the medieval history of his home city. When, in the mid-19th century, the Seine was dredged during Haussmann's renovation of the city, the scholar worked to recover a great number of archaeological remains from the silts of the river. He subsequently published his findings in the five-volume title Collection of Historiated Leaves Found in the Seine and Collected by Arthur Forgeais (published 1862-1866). The present collection of pewter pilgrim badges, all French in origin, is likely to have been recovered at this time.

Lozenge-shaped with an integral suspension loop, featuring a central cross on a linear background with a wide border surrounding. 2.75 grams, 29 mm



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.

Vesica-shaped with a loop on the reverse, a bird holding a branch at the centre, inscription surrounding 'IESV: SEL BON E LEL', translating as ‘I am a seal, good and loyal’. 5.88 grams, 26 mm



Acquired on the European art market.