This very remarkable carved cup or Pix was formerly in the Museum of
Mr. Allan of Grange near Darlington, “a good lawyer and very accurate
antiquary,” and was transferred with the rest of his Museum to the
Natural History Society of Newcastle. Where it originally came from
is not known, and its form and ornamentation present difficulties in
assigning a time and place to its production.
At the top is the Virgin and Child, and on the base towards which depend
four dead serpents, is rudely carved Daniel in the Lion’s den. It is
unquestionably of considerable antiquity, although it has been well
preserved: the outer case (which fits exactly to its shape and opens with
hinges and fine clasps) being very much decayed. This case is of wood, it
has been lined with velvet and is covered outside with stamped and gilt
leather, the patterns however are nearly lost. The cup Cover is 10 inches
high.
In Mr. Fox’s Synopsis of the Museum it is stated that the inscription on
a piece of parchment still attached to the Pix, was partially recovered
as follows. Johannes Schlevel * * * Johannes E * * * Schffle. De E * * *
* ine hujus poculi * * * entur nostrum Testimonium.