Saxon & Medieval — Medieval; late 13th-early 14th century
Brooch, ring brooch
The inscription on this pewter brooch was a powerful charm. It says '+A+G+L+A+AVEMARIAGRA'. 'AGLA' was a magical formula used to ward off fever. It came from the initials of the Hebrew words 'ate gebir leilam adonai' ('Thou art mighty for ever, Lord'). The other part of the inscription is in Latin and stands for 'Ave Maria gracia plena', meaning 'Hail Mary full of grace'. Hebrew retained its reputation as a language with great mystical powers after the expulsion of the Jews from England in 1290.
- Category:
- Saxon & Medieval
- Object ID:
- 80.73/1
- Object name:
- brooch, ring brooch
- Object type:
- Artist/Maker:
- —
- Related people:
- Related events:
- Related places:
- Production date:
- Medieval; late 13th-early 14th century
- Material:
lead alloy
- Measurements/duration:
- DM 34 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.