The legend of the Swan Knight found much favour in the medieval period, with many noble families claiming descent from this legendary figure. Symbolically, swans chained from the neck, as in this badge, were regarded as magical creatures, being able to change from swan to human form. Although pewter swan badges such as this could have been worn as livery badges by the retainers of noble families, it is also possible that they simply served to symbolise the Swan Knight legend. The legend ‘OR LOONS DIEU’, as in many badges of this form, is meaningless.

Late 14th - 15th cent.

42x57mm A chained swan.