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Mortuary cross from plague victim, 1348 (lead)
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Mortuary cross from plague victim, 1348 (lead)
3701699 Mortuary cross from plague victim, 1348 (lead) by English School, (14th century); Science Museum, London, UK; (add.info.: The plague is caused by infection with Yersinia Pestis, carried by fleas that infest rodents which then bite humans. The plague is thought to have originated from the Eastern provinces of China, and travelled along the well established Silk Road through the Middle East and the Eastern Mediterranean, before reaching southern Italy in 1347 and the rest of Europe soon after. Also known as the bubonic plague and the Black Death, it killed one third of the population of Europe. Outbreaks of the plague continued to occur in Europe until the 17th century.); SSPL/UIG
Media ID 22971626
© SSPL/UIG / Bridgeman Images
1300s 14 14th Xiv Xivth Fourteenth Century Ailments Artefact Artifact Black Death Bubonic Plague Burial Contagion Crucifix Disease Diseases Epidemia Epidemic Grave Goods Illness Infected Infection Infectious Infectious Disease Infectious Diseases Infirmity Late 14th Century Macabre Maladies Malady Medical Supplies Mortuary Pandemic Pestilence Plague Sexually Transmitted Disease Sick Sickness Spirituality Stds Venereal Disease Xiv Secolo 14 14o Xiv Xivo Secolo 14 14th Xiv Xivth Century 14 Century Asclepius Asklepieion Asklepios C14th Fourteenth Century Healthcare Medical Science Medical Services Mortality Physical Health Social History The 14th Century Xiv Century Xivth Century
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a mortuary cross from a plague victim dating back to 1348. Crafted out of lead, this haunting artifact serves as a chilling reminder of the devastating impact of the bubonic plague, also known as the Black Death. During the 14th century, Europe was ravaged by this deadly disease, which originated in China and spread along trade routes such as the Silk Road. The plague reached southern Italy in 1347 before quickly spreading throughout Europe, ultimately claiming the lives of one third of its population. The mortuary cross symbolizes both religious faith and mortality. It represents not only the spiritual aspect associated with death but also serves as a grave good for those who succumbed to this horrific pandemic. Its gothic design reflects the macabre nature of that era. As outbreaks continued until the 17th century, this artifact stands as a testament to human resilience in times of great adversity. It is an important piece within England's social history and offers insight into medieval medicine and spirituality. Displayed at London's Science Museum, this photograph captures not only an artful representation but also provides historical context surrounding one of humanity's darkest chapters. Through artifacts like these, we are reminded to appreciate our health while acknowledging past struggles against infectious diseases that have shaped our world today.
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