Fabulous hand painted French toleware procession shield depicting the Virgin Mary.

These would have been used as way markers or station points along the processional route. They would be planted directly into the soil to designate temporary outdoor altars, as a halt for the community to pray the rosary or sing hymns.

Beautiful colours and showing a little age related wear. Would be lovely unusual Christmas decoration, though wouldn’t look out of place all year round.

30.5 x 56cm high including spike.