Medieval Bear Livery / Hat Badge

Code: 10190

This is a wonderful medieval livery/hat badge, dating to the 15th century. It is finely sculpted and engraved, taking the form of a bear. Such badges may have had a connection with the sport of bear baiting, or associated with livery of powerful dukes and earls. During this period the Bear and ragged staff were used as the livery of the Duke of Warwick. The back of the badge retains the base of split pin fixing, originally folded over. It is a handsome piece of medieval art, with a great look.

OBJECT: Livery Badge

CULTURE: Medieval

DATE: c. 15th century A.D.

MATERIAL: Bronze, gold gilded

SIZE: 32.46mm x 24.14mm x 4.66mm

WEIGHT: 10.33 grams

PROVENANCE: Ex. European private collection, originally found in Normandy, France