Findspot record TQ 77 NW 32 - Pilgrim's Ampulla, found near Allen's Hill, West Street, Cliffe

Summary

A 14th or 15th century Pilgrim's Ampulla found near Allen's Hill in August 1982. The ovoid bodied artefact once had small loop handles on its sides probably used for hanging around the neck. A faint raised motif resembling a stylised flower was still evident. Present whereabouts uncertain.

Location

Grid reference TQ 731 766 (point) FCE
Map sheet TQ77NW
County KENT
Civil Parish CLIFFE AND CLIFFE WOODS, MEDWAY, KENT
Unitary Authority MEDWAY

Map

Type and Period (1)

Full Description

[TQ 732 766 - sited to Allan's Hill only] In August 1982, a pilgrim's ampulla was found by Mr Brian Dennis near Allen's Hill, Cliffe. It is 5cm long and 2.8cm at its widest point. It has a round or ovoid body and a tapered neck. Either side of the neck are the remnants of small loop handles, probably used for hanging the ampulla around the neck. On one side of the body is a slightly raised motif, which although faint, resembles a stylised flower. In the general absence of readily dated examples it seems likely that the ampulla from Cliffe may date from the 14th or 15th centuries. The precise findspot is not discussed due to probable interference by treasure hunters (1). Additional reference (2).


<1> Kent Arch Rev 74 1983 97-98 (J Jay) (OS Card Reference). SKE45820.

<2> Joy, J., 1983, A lead ampulla from Cliffe, p.97-8 (Article in serial). SWX7718.

Sources/Archives (2)

  • <1>XY OS Card Reference: Kent Arch Rev 74 1983 97-98 (J Jay). [Mapped feature: #25398 find, ]
  • <2> Article in serial: Joy, J.. 1983. A lead ampulla from Cliffe. 74, pages 97-8. p.97-8.

Finds (1)

Protected Status/Designation

  • None recorded

Related Monuments/Buildings (0)

Related Events/Activities (0)

Record last edited

Aug 12 2021 11:21AM