Thomas Becket ampullae
Type:
Ampullae,
Pilgrim souvenirs
Date:
1275–1375
Location or Findspot (Modern-Day Country):
United Kingdom
Medium:
Lead
Description:
Pilgrims to the shrine of Thomas Becket at Canterbury sometimes purchased mass-produced souvenir ampullae like the ones pictured here. One represents the saint as a standing figure in the round, dressed in a bishop's miter and chasuble. The other is more narrative in design, with one side of the ampulla depicting the martyrdom of Thomas Becket. Although the scene is highly simplified, the lamp hanging above the knight and kneeling figure hints at the interior of a church as the setting for the assassination. The other side shows God holding the saint's soul between two angels.
Relevant Textbook Chapter(s):
8,
9
Repository and Online Resources:
• Visit the British Museum's website to view these and other objects associated with the shrine of Thomas Becket.
Image Credits:
© Trustees of the British Museum
