Saints and Their Badges – Pilgrim Badges and Medieval Devotion

Author: Dr. Michael Lewis
Format: Softback, 168 pages
Size: 250mm × 190mm
ISBN: 978-1-897738-55-9

Saints and Their Badges introduces the fascinating world of medieval pilgrim badges—small, often overlooked artefacts that held deep religious significance. Pilgrims purchased these badges as mementoes of their sacred journeys, believing they absorbed holiness through contact with relics.

Written by Dr. Michael Lewis of the British Museum and Portable Antiquities Scheme, this book is ideal for detectorists, historians, and medievalists. It helps identify common badge types and provides insight into the lives of saints they depict, as well as the customs and beliefs surrounding medieval pilgrimage.

Highlights:

• Detailed overview of common pilgrim badge types
• Explores religious and cultural significance in medieval society
• Guidance for recognising and preserving fragile finds
• Beautifully illustrated with examples from lead, copper alloy, and even precious metals
• Written by a leading expert in medieval artefacts

Whether you're a seasoned detectorist or a student of medieval history, this book offers essential insight into a little-known but meaningful category of artefacts.

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