Ampulla of Thomas a’Becket

Description

1270 – 1350 AD. The lead original is a Pilgrim’s Ampulla, designed to hold Holy water. It is decorated with pierced surround and Latin inscription “Thomas is the best Doctor of the worthy sick”. Obverse: Thomas a’Becket; Reverse: Martyrdom of Thomas a’Becket with one Knight. Excavated in crushed condition at 13th century Waterfront Revetment, Swan Lanesite, London in 1982. It may be seen in the Museum of London. The reproduction is in domestic pewter, in re-formed condition. Diameter 65mm