Amatory Brooch
In terms of its function, decoration, and inscription, this intimate piece of jewelry conveys the chivalric ideal of love. Made in the shape of the letter E, the brooch has a hinged cover that allowed it to function as a locket. The cover bears the figure of a man holding arrows aimed at his heart, while the interior inscription (in a Saxon dialect?) reads: • V/REWELININ • VRME DEI + HRZE • LEVE• /NSTE • MOIS IC IN • /•SIN (Fair lady, may I always remain close to your heart.)
This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.