The Three Kings

Pilgrim badge or brooch, possibly from the shrine of the Three Kings in Cologne, Germany. Cologne was a popular pilgrimage destination as it had the relics of the Three Kings or Magi (the three kings or wise men who visited Jesus Christ shortly after his birth) in its cathedral. London was well connected to Cologne through its trading links and several Cologne pilgrim souvenirs have been found here. However, this badge may not necessarily have come from Cologne as the cult of the Three Kings was generally very popular. Their traditional names (Melchior, Casper and Balthazar) were thought to have the power to fend off evil, bring good luck, cure disease and find lost property and so were often added to all kinds of everyday items such as jewellery, candlesticks and buckles. This brooch is decorated with a floral motif in the centre and the names of the Three Kings around the edge: ‘CASPER: MELCHIOR: B[A]PTIS[ER]’.