Annunication Devotional Pilgrim Badge, Boxed With Brief Historical Descripition

This badge depicts the Annunciation, with the archangel Gabriel to the left and the Virgin Mary to the right. In the centre is a fleur de lis – the heraldic form of the lily flower and, as such, a symbol of purity. We would usually expect the banderol held by Gabriel to bear an abbreviated angelic salutation - ‘Ave Maria, gratia plena, Dominus tecum’, but here it is simply plain.

Origin and Date: This example was found in London and dates from the 14th or 15th century.
Size: Width 32mm x Height 35mm
This is copied from a badge in the collection of the British Museum
Fixing / Fastener: Pin and Clutch