Unknown bullion breast badly/Award

[yorkstone]

I picked up quite a few items in Antwerp last Saturday this Bullion Breast Badge or Award has some age can anyone identify its Origin.

Regards

Stephen

[Alex Rice]

I think the photos are upside down and it's meant to be an elephant's head in the star. Looks like some sort of decorative Indian device, I doubt that it is an award.
Cheers,
Alex

[yorkstone]

Alex
I believe image is correct I believe Central device is a Swan the head is badly worn.

Regards

Stephen

[Phil2M]

I would suggest that the swan (with blood) represents Christ (red on white). So I would surmise that this is a decorative item from a stole or other religious garment.

[Phil2M]

I did a google search:

https://www.catholiceducation.org/en...e-pelican.html

Can now see the three babies in your badge

[btns]

The badge is from the Belgian "commissions d'assistance publique" 1925-1976. They were organised in all municipalities to support the poor.
The staff of the commissions had their own uniforms.

[yorkstone]

Thank you all for your assistance it was on its own in a cabinet without any information the shop owner could not help once again the power of the forum comes through.

Regards to All

Stephen

[Alex Rice]

Originally Posted by yorkstone

Alex
I believe image is correct I believe Central device is a Swan the head is badly worn.

Regards

Stephen

Hi Stephen
Thanks, never would have spotted it as a swan but now that you pointed it out it does look like a bird.
Cheers,
Alex

[Phil2M]

I was surprised that its actually a pelican.

[btns]

Here is a link explaining the pelican on the badge:
https://www.catholiceducation.org/en...e-pelican.html

[Phil2M]

Originally Posted by btns

Here is a link explaining the pelican on the badge:
https://www.catholiceducation.org/en...e-pelican.html

See post number 5

[peter monahan]

The heraldic name for this device is 'A pelican in her piety'. The self sacrifice of the mother feeding her young with her own blood is said to symbolize Christ's sacrifice of his own life for his people. The sign is commonly seen in Catholic churches, on wall ornaments, altar cloths and vestments and could be used by many Catholic organizations.

So, a Belgian charity organization makes perfect sense: sacrifice for the good of others.

[Phil2M]

Its also used on The Seal of The State of Louisiana.

I am not suggesting the OP badge is American.

[peter monahan]

Originally Posted by Phil2M

Its also used on The Seal of The State of Louisiana.

I am not suggesting the OP badge is American.

Hence the mystery novel - Grisham, I think - called "The Pelican Brief".