English: A cast lead or lead alloy Medieval ampulla. In plan the lower half is sub-circular with an integral narrowed elongated trapezoid which forms the upper portion of the ampulla. Either side of the lower lateral edge of the trapezoid portion has traces of an integral lug. The upper edge of the ampulla has been crimped closed with small nicks on the surface still evident. Both lower faces of the ampulla are decorated. One face is decorated with a fine scallop design on the with a horizontal band forming the upper border to the scalloped edges. The reverse face has a circular frame which has fine cross hatching within. On this gross hatching and central to the field is a small crown surmounting a reverse 'S'. The field and edges around the circular design has fine obliquely angled grooves. Again above the circular design there is a horizontal band forming the upper border. The surface of the ampulla has developed a light cream coloured patina. Its length from the upper edge to the apex of the base is 55.47mm, the maximum width across the lower portion is 29.01mm, and the thickness of the base of the ampulla is 7.06mm. It weighs 43.7g.

Ampullae were used as a flask to hold holy water, becoming a souvenir of a pilgrimage; they generally date to the late 12th to 15th centuries (Spencer, B. 1990, Pilgrim Souvenirs and Secular Badges, Salisbury and South Wiltshire Museum p, 57 ff). The style of this ampulla is of a late Medieval date where ampulla becomes smaller and less ornate (ibid: 205).The scallop design was the emblem of St. James the Greater from the 12^th century, but became the generic symbol of pilgrimage itself, therefore representing all pilgrim saints and for all pilgrims (ibid: 41). Ampullae such as this type are rarely found in urban areas, but more in rurual areas which may reflect the folk practice such as burying the ampulla in fields to protect crops and livestock from illness (ibid: 205).