Medieval 'Thames' Gloves of St Thomas Becket Pilgrim's Badge Group 14th century A.D. A group of two pewter pilgrim's badges in the form of Thomas Becket's right glove, one with a prominent projection to the little finger, perhaps representing a ring; with a small card giving a reference. See Spencer, Brian, Medieval Finds from Excavations in London - Pilgrim Souvenirs and Secular Badges, Museum of London, 2010, no.120, for an almost identical piece; see See Mitchiner, Michael, Pilgrim and Secular Badges, Hawkins, 1986, no.120, for another example 1.62 grams total, 28 mm (1 1/8 in.). Found on the Thames foreshore, London, UK. Acquired on the UK antiques market between 1974-1985. Albert Ward collection (part 4), Essex, UK. The story of the martyrdom of Thomas at the hands of Reginald FitzUrse, Hugh de Morville, William de Tracy and Richard le Breton is well known; Thomas was in conflict with Henry II and had only recently returned from exile in France when these four knights, seeking to please Henry, travelled to Canterbury and slew Thomas in the cathedral; Henry was obliged to do public penance for the act and Becket's shrine became the major focus for pilgrimages in Britain and beyond. [2, No Reserve]