About the object
This is one of three tokens in the Collection decorated with sequins, known in the eighteenth century as “spangles” (or even “spangs”). These little discs were usually made from gold, silver or copper. They were punched from thin sheets of metal or made by flattening loops of wire. Tiny coils of very fine wire – called purl – add to the decoration on this token. All were sewn on meticulously by hand.
Time has taken its toll on the appearance of the token. The spangles and purl that once glittered in candlelight are now tarnished and dull. There are traces of faded colour on the back of the ribbon, suggesting that it was a vibrant red and blue when it was first made.
