The tradition of inserting medallions inside lids and bases has its origin in monastic workshop practice where they were used to conceal the holes created by the casting rods around which the one-off clay mould cores were modelled and baked. After casting, the rod holding the mould mantle, the finished vessel and the core was removed from the lathe, the rod was tapped out and the clay core was then chipped away from the inside of the finished vessel. The resulting holes were then plugged with medallions. With the advent of part-moulds, repetitive casting was possible and medallions were no longer needed. This lid was probably designed for a Rhenish stoneware jug or bottle (see notes under A10431 above)
