The object of the day: Victorian silver Druid badge

Victorian silver Druid badge (England 1869)

Dimensions:
2.80inch wide (7.11 cm)
3.70inch high (9.40 cm)

Description / Expertise
Striking and attractive Victorian silver Druid presentation badge. Not hallmarked but of good weight. Applied onto the centre of the front of the badge(with rivets on the back) is the form of a sage or Druid holding a crook-end staff in the left hand and the Druid shield with three trees in the right, surrounded by a wreath of leaves joined with a bow at the bast and with an angel flying above, blowing a trumpet. The outside edge of the badge is decorated with a double border, the applied inner border simulating a rope. Between the borders and the central decoration is engraved "Bro,r P. A. R. A. Bn,, Osmand. by Lodges 247. & 401. A.O.D." On the reverse of the badge there is a suspension hook at the top and a brooch attachment in the centre. The silver rivets and nail ends are visible. The reverse is engraved "Presented as a token of/ their esteem, & appreciation/of services rendered to/ DRUIDISM, / in/ TUNBRIDGE WELLS/ July 8th 1869"

Druidism is an extremely ancient order with strong Celtic links. In the early nineteenth century, it found its way to America and from there to Germany. In the UK after 1833, Druidism polarised into a charitable Fraternal Society, similar in some ways to the Masons and the Odd Fellows.
Condition

Extremely fine. Excellent definition and clear engraving

Price GBP 320.00 (Pound Sterling)