Crucifixion scene

Part of a pilgrim badge from an unknown shrine. This openwork badge depicts Jesus Christ on the cross surrounded by a frame which is decorated to look like stonework. The figure of Christ and the cross is missing, as is the top of the frame. The two-stepped pedestal on which the cross would have stood, and Christ’s feet, survive. The base of the frame underneath the pedestal is decorated with wavy lines to represent water. On the complete versions of this badge, Christ is shown wearing a long robe. This is the typical way that Christ on the cross was depicted before the 11th century so this badge probably commemorates an early medieval rood. Before the Reformation in the 16th century, every church had a large crucifix, known as a rood, on display. Some roods were associated with miracles and became the focus for pilgrimages.