Reliquary Brooch with Eagle

Reliquary Brooch
Bohemia (?), mid-14th century
Silver, gilded silver, enamel, 
stones et pearls
H. 0.185 m ; W. 0.185 m
Acq. 1861 ; Cl. 3292

This large brooch was used to hold together the two front panels of the large cloak worn by a high-ranking personage, layman or ecclesiast. For a long time, it was believed to be of German, perhaps even imperial, origin because of the eagle with its proudly spread wings. Even if other origins are possible, the stylised flame roots and the crown could reasonably be ascribed to a German emperor of the Bohemian family. In addition, the presence of relics could mean it was an exclusively ecclesiastical object. But in reality princes liked to wear reliquary jewels for protection, and that sovereigns were considered sacred individuals.