Badge of the Order of Saint Michael

Unknown

17th century, with modern chains and links · Shell cameo, mounted in gold, with seashell motifs · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Both sides of this pendant contain shell cameos with well-worn, almost mirror images of the archangel Michael putting down Satan. The badge belonged to a member of the French Royal Order of Saint Michael, which was founded by Louis XI in 1469. Badges with shell were reputedly presented to ecclesiastic members, whose numbers had swelled to one hundred before they were reduced to six by decree of Louis XIV in 1655 as part of a reform of the chivalric order.

Artist

Unknown

Date

17th century, with modern chains and links

Medium

Shell cameo, mounted in gold, with seashell motifs

Culture

French

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917