Rattle with shell fragments

Pilgrim souvenir in the form of an openwork rattle with cockle shells and a pebble inside (scallop shells were a symbol of pilgrimage but here cockles have been used as a substitute). Several rattles like these have been in London but it is uncertain which shrine they came from. Rattles may have been bought as pilgrim souvenirs for children. Noise-making souvenirs such as bells and whistles could be bought at a variety of pilgrimage centres – the noise was thought to protect the owners from harm. Rattles may have had a similar function and therefore be used by adults as well as children.