Medieval Pilgrims Ampulla - Coat Of Arms Of France - 15th Century

Pilgrimage ampulla first appeared in the early centuries of the Common Era and saw significant development in the 15th century, a period marked by the rise of pilgrimages to sacred destinations such as Santiago de Compostela, Jerusalem, and Rome.
These small flasks were used to carry secondary relics (objects or garments that had come into contact with a saint) connected to the pilgrimage site.
Mainly made of lead, the ampulla were sealed by crushing the metal, thereby preserving the contents.

The example presented here is flattened in shape, resembling a small flask, and features two loops allowing it to be worn around the neck.
Our ampulla has remained almost intact. One of its faces bears the coast of arms of France.

Dimensions:
Height: 3.2 cm
Width: 3.5 cm
Thickness: 0.4 cm

France, 15th century

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