Decorated foodstuffs have for centuries brought delight to the dining table. This German example made from pearwood would have been used to stamp gingerbread before baking to create delicious novelties. The Agnus Dei, or Lamb of God, was a popular Christian motif to remind worshippers of Christ's role as their sacrificial lamb. The image would also remind the meek that they might eventually triumph and ascend to heaven despite their unfavourable eartly situation. This object is a good example of folk art, and is charmingly engraved, a feeling made stronger by the reversed aspect of the date, 1795, on any imprints made by the mould.

 Gallery location:
Europe 1600-1815, Room 1, case EXP, shelf Touch Object

This object is part of "Scan The World". Scan the World is a non-profit initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory, through which we are creating a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks and landmarks from across the globe for the public to access for free. Scan the World is an open source, community effort, if you have interesting items around you and would like to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to find out how you can help.

Scanned : Photogrammetry (Processed using Agisoft PhotoScan)

Courtesy of the Victoria and Albert Museum, London