Product description
Several medieval pilgrim badges depict a monkey physician standing on a fish, using a pestle to urinate into a mortar. The mortar and pestle were essential tools for medieval doctors and apothecaries, who often used them to crush ingredients for various remedies. Additionally, urine examination was a standard practice in medieval medical diagnostics. The image of the monkey physician humorously emphasizes the flawed and uncertain nature of the doctor’s work, with the slippery fish symbolizing the shaky foundation of his treatments.
The badge, measuring 4 x 3 cm, features a sturdy pin on the back for attachment to clothing. It is available in silver-plated bronze.
Satirical pilgrim badges like this were created in the Middle Ages to mock societal norms and criticize hypocrisy and human behavior. The image of the monkey doctor reflects the 15th-century view of physicians and their practices. In medieval symbolism, the monkey was often seen as an imitator and a symbol of deception, portraying a figure of low status who falsely claimed a higher position. This badge humorously plays on these associations to critique the medical profession of the time.
Details:
Material: silvered bronze
Dimensions: 4 x 3 cm
Based on a historical original
Shipment weight (g): 100 *
This item is produced in limited quantities only. This means that every piece is unique. Sizes & finish may vary lightly from piece to piece.
When packaging this item, we exclusively use 100% recycled plastic and recycled paper/cardboard from FSC certified forests. We reuse a large part of the material directly without the intervention of a recycling process.
Recycle the material by separating your waste:
1. Cardboard: separate or reuse your paper.
2. Plastic cushions, clothing bags and plastic tape: separate or reuse your plastic. If possible, pierce the cushions with a volume reduction needle.
3. Paper packaging for jewelry and small items: these have a plastic inner layer. Remove these, then separate your paper and plastic.
Read here about how we are committed to sustainability.
