The Three Kings

Pilgrim badge from the shrine of the Three Kings in Cologne, Germany. Cologne was a popular pilgrimage destination as the relics of the Three Kings or Magi (the three kings or wise men who visited Jesus Christ shortly after his birth) were transferred to its cathedral from Milan in 1164. London was well connected to Cologne through its trading links and several Cologne pilgrim souvenirs have been found here. This openwork badge has a circular frame with an architectural canopy at the top. Within the canopy is a small circular frame with integral clips to hold a mirror (mirrors were used on some pilgrim souvenirs to catch the reflection of holy relics at a shrine and so absorb some of their power). To the right of the mirror is the figure of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus Christ. Within the main frame of the badge is the scene of the Magi travelling to Bethlehem on horseback. There is a star above the first figure, Caspar. The figures of the other two kings, Melchior and Balthazar, are incomplete. Part of a piece of lead-tin foil still survives as a backing to the scene. The foil is held in place with small clips.