Product description
This unique medieval pilgrim's badge is inspired by a find from the Netherlands, dating between 1400 and 1450 AD. It features a so-called "phallic animal," with a moving bell positioned in front of an open vulva. The inscription "Pintelin" is likely Old Dutch, possibly meaning "little willy." The original badge, made of pewter, is currently part of the Langbroek Collection, Van Beuningen.In the late Middle Ages, pilgrim badges with crude erotic or obscene motifs were particularly common in the Netherlands, although they also appeared in Belgium and England. These badges were likely used for amusement during the carnival season, reflecting the period's tendency to blend humor and irreverence with social rituals. The replica is available in high-quality silver-plated bronze.
The erotic imagery on these pilgrim badges, including depictions of phallic trees, ships, and animals, was part of a larger group of profane badges. The "phallic animal" often depicted a half-human, half-animal creature with exaggerated sexual features, sometimes crowned or adorned with bells. These badges were likely created to address sexuality through humor, serving as conversation starters and tools for sexual initiation, especially during the revelry of the carnival season.
Product details
Product details:
Material: silvered bronze
Dimensions: 3.3 x 3.5 cm
Based on a historical original
Shipment weight (g): 100
