File:Medieval Pilgrims Ampulla (FindID 133749).jpg

English: Incomplete cast lead or lead alloy pilgrims ampulla dating from the medieval period; late 13th - late 15th century (1250-1500). The pilgrims’ ampulla is broadly sub-rectangular in plan and profile. The lower part has a rounded convex base that tapers slightly to form a waste at the mid point. This then flares outwards towards the upper edge which has been damaged. Where the ampulla sides flare there is a poorly defined (possibly mist cast) loop on either side. Both these loops are irregular in shape. The ampulla measures, 50.5mm in length (from the upper edge to the apex of the base), 31.8mm maximum width (across the base of the ampulla), and is 5.8mm thick (at the base). The ampulla weighs 39.71 grams.

The front and rear face of the ampulla is decorated with cast motifs. These designs have been badly abraded and are indistinct. On one face, on the lower part of the ampulla, is a heart shaped (?) cross hatched design, above this there is a partial letter W or possibly M?. This might stand either for Walsingham, a common medieval pilgrimage destination, or for Maria (Mary the Virgin Mother) suggesting a shrine to the Holy Mother. The reverse (other side) of the ampulla has a floral design. Around a central pellet four flower petals are arranged evenly; each petal is formed from a pointed oval hoop. A large casting ridge crosses through the centre of this design. Similar trimmed casting flashes can be seen around the edge of the flask.

The ampulla is a mid creamy grey colour with an even patina that covers the majority of surfaces. This patina has been abraded in several areas revealing a mid grey metal beneath. There are several areas of damage present; the most significant of these is a horizontal crease running across the centre of the ampulla. Other areas include damage feathering to the upper edge of the flask. All these are consistent to damage and abrasion occurring in the plough zone of a field. Ampullae were used to contain holy water, as a souvenir of a pilgrimage; they date to the 13th to 15th centuries. It has been suggested that many of these are found unconnected with religious sites (specifically in East Anglia) and it is thought that they could have been used and discarded in a religious ceremony to bless the fields.