Code: 12935
This is a nice and original medieval lead ampulla (Holy-water flask) found with a metal detector in Hertfordshire. It is a simple, utilitarian example used to transport blessed oils to heal the sick. See LON-0DCCA9, SUR-1464B and YORYM-C714BA for further recorded examples. Such ampullae were often sold at sacred shrines or monasteries where the contents would be blessed. The faithful believed the contents had miraculous healing properties, so they undertook long, often arduous journeys to acquire them. This example clearly shows a knife mark used to open the flask to access the blessed contents. A nice item with a story to tell!
OBJECT: Ampulla flask
CULTURE: Medieval England
DATE: c. 12th - 14th century AD
MATERIAL: Lead
SIZE: 52mm x 30mm x 7mm
WEIGHT: 38.366 grams
PROVENANCE: Formerly in a private collection, metal detector find from Hertfordshire
