Saxon & Medieval — Late Medieval; 14th-15th century
Ampulla
Undecorated ampulla from an unknown shrine. Ampullae were small lead alloy bottles that contained water that been associated with saintly relics – sometimes relics were dipped into the water to transfer some of their power. This water was thought to have powerful properties such as the ability to cure diseases and so ampullae were popular pilgrim souvenirs. There are lug handles at the base of the neck so the ampulla could be worn on string round the neck or hung up at home to be used when needed.
- Category:
- Saxon & Medieval
- Object ID:
- 80.88
- Object name:
- Ampulla
- Object type:
- Artist/Maker:
- —
- Related people:
- Related events:
- Related places:
- Production date:
- Late Medieval; 14th-15th century
- Material:
lead alloy
- Measurements/duration:
- H 55 mm, W 35 mm (overall)
- Part of:
- —
- On display:
- —
- Record quality:
- 100%
- Part of this object:
- —
- Owner Status & Credit:
Permanent collection
- Copyright holder:
digital image © London Museum
- Image credit:
- —
- Creative commons usage:
- —
- License this image:
To license this image for commercial use, please contact the London Museum Picture Library.