Holy Rood of Bromholm

Ampulla from the shrine of the Holy Rood at Bromholm in Norfolk. The Cluniac priory of Bromholm became a popular pilgrimage destination after it acquired a miracle-working fragment of the True Cross (the cross on which Christ was crucified) in about 1220.This ampulla has an indented outline which probably reflects the shape of the Bromholm’s relic. It is decorated with an image of St Andrew tied to a saltire cross on one side. Saint Andrew was the patron saint of Bromholm Priory and this ampulla may have been made for sale to pilgrims on St Andrew’s Day (30 November). On the back is a patriarchal cross (one with two crossbars) flanked by roundels containing small scenes which probably depict miracles that had taken place at Bromholm.

Ampullae were small bottles that contained water that been associated with saintly relics – sometimes relics were dipped into the water to transfer some of their power. This water was thought to have powerful properties such as the ability to cure diseases and so ampullae were popular pilgrim souvenirs. There are lug handles at the base of the neck so the ampulla could be worn on string round the neck or hung up at home to be used when needed.