Medieval European Bronze Bracteate - St. George

Northern Europe, later Medieval period, ca. 13th to 15th century CE. A beautifully preserved cast bronze bracteate, probably a pilgrim's badge, depicting St. George atop his horse, slaying a worm-like dragon. He holds a massive broadsword and a crescent moon shines overhead upon the scene. Six tiny piercings around the sides - in three pairs - allowed this bracteate to be worn. Although St. George, a soldier of Cappadocian Greek origin, had been popular in Europe for several centuries prior to this time period, the story of him slaying the dragon seems to have originated in Georgia in the 11th century and only reached Europe in the 12th century, and was popularized by the Archbishop of Genoa, Jacobus da Varagine, in his collection of hagiographies, the "Golden Legend". Today, many people associate St. George with England. His legend became popular there following his feast day's promotion to a major festival after Henry V's victory at Agincourt in 1415. Many pilgrim badges and bracteates were produced after that. Size: 2.45" W (6.2 cm)

Provenance: ex-Suzanne Artuner, New Jersey, USA, acquired in 1998; gifted by mother Frances Artuner in 1995 who had owned in Belgium since the 1960’s

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#137073
Condition Report: Very tiny losses along the edges, otherwise in great condition with a smooth, very dark green patina and great preservation of motifs.