Saxon & Medieval — Late Medieval; 15th century
Heart be True
During the 14th and 15th centuries, the heart was the most common symbol of love. Heart brooches and pendants appear to have been universally popular. Over 50 medieval pewter heart badges have been found in London, most of these on the Thames foreshore. Many are crowned hearts, fringed with imitation pearls. Some, like this one, have a sash-like scroll with the lover’s message ‘herte be trew’ (‘heart be true’). This was probably a love-token, given to a loved one as a present.
- Category:
- Saxon & Medieval
- Object ID:
- 97.95/5
- Object name:
- Heart be True
- Object type:
- Artist/Maker:
- —
- Related people:
- Related events:
- Related places:
- Production date:
- Late Medieval; 15th century
- Material:
copper alloy
- Measurements/duration:
- L 53 mm, W 34 mm (overall)
- Part of:
- —
- On display:
- —
- Record quality:
- 80%
- 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.