A Christian pilgrim's lead ampulla. French 20th century.

A Christian pilgrim's lead ampulla. French 20th century.A lead ampulla impressed with a shell on the main body and a fleur de lis pattern on the neck. It would have contained holy water or even soil from a holy site and used as an amulet by the pilgrim. Although they date from the Middle Ages this example is 20th century as it has impressed French marks on the back 'Depose MD Brevete' followed by a few numbers which are very difficult to make out. It was likely purchased in France by a pilgrim on St James

The pattern includes flowers and shells-a strange mix but typical of the period

They are the type that would have sat opposite a mother of pearl handled pair in a Palais Royal sewing box

Inside it contains 9 needle packets in their compartments with the various sizes stamped in gold

Miller 24 Old Fish Street who advertised 'Satin Medallion Pin Cushions a most fashionable and elegant article priced at 1 shilling'

Bowls 3 x 1

A silver mechanical pencil and dip pen

The lid is set with a painted paper cut out of a house and gardens by a river arranged to give a 3D effect and set against a painted sky with birds

It is in excellent condition-no damage and by well known London makers Halstaff and Hannaford of Regent Street London

A pair of small silver garter buckles worn by a Georgian gentleman

Decorated with coloured stripes

7cm inches long (1

75 inch ) Tops measure 2