Lead clad casket with scenes of the life of Christ, 14/15th century

A lead clad casket decorated with scenes depicting the life of Christ amongst Saints.

Probably English, 14/15th century.

Measures 15 x 7.5 x 6.3cm.

The casket is constructed with a wooden core, the sides decorated with silver foil beneath the lead panels, the top with silver foil and purple velvet beneath the crucifixion scene in the centre. The pierced lead panels draw strong parallels with pilgrim badges made during the same period in England and much of Northern Europe. An extraordinarily rare medieval casket, in fine condition with restoration to three of the Saints heads.

A pierced panel from a similar casket was sold by Bishop and Miller Auctions, The Oak Interior Sale, 18-19 Oct 2023, Lot 17. It was catalogued as: A rare 14th century pewter casket panel, probably English Designed with seven standing figures, including an angel, armoured Knights, maidens and mythical part human beast, each within a tracery arch, height 7.5cm, width 17cm Provenance: Former Peter Hornsby Collection. Sold Sotheby’s, London 22 April 1986. Hammer price £3,600 plus buyers commission.