Product description
This unique medieval pilgrim's badge is inspired by a find from the Netherlands, dating between 1400 and 1450 AD. It features a so-called "phallic animal," with a moving bell positioned in front of an open vulva. The inscription "Pintelin" is likely Old Dutch, possibly meaning "little willy." The original badge, made of pewter, is currently part of the Langbroek Collection, Van Beuningen.
In the late Middle Ages, pilgrim badges with crude erotic or obscene motifs were particularly common in the Netherlands, although they also appeared in Belgium and England. These badges were likely used for amusement during the carnival season, reflecting the period's tendency to blend humor and irreverence with social rituals. The replica is available in high-quality silver-plated bronze.
The erotic imagery on these pilgrim badges, including depictions of phallic trees, ships, and animals, was part of a larger group of profane badges. The "phallic animal" often depicted a half-human, half-animal creature with exaggerated sexual features, sometimes crowned or adorned with bells. These badges were likely created to address sexuality through humor, serving as conversation starters and tools for sexual initiation, especially during the revelry of the carnival season.
Details:
Material: silvered bronze
Dimensions: 3.3 x 3.5 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.
