The pendant in question bears a significant historical inscription in Latin. On the back of the pendant, the inscription identifies its donor and recipient, reading: "Bishop Reginald of Bath gives this to Queen Margaret of Sicily." The obverse side of the pendant contains another inscription detailing the relics that were once housed beneath the crystal: "From the blood of the holy martyr Thomas. From his vestments stained with his blood: cloak, belt, hood, shoe, shirt."
The historical context surrounding this pendant is noteworthy. It is believed that Bishop Reginald of Bath presented this pendant to Queen Margaret of Sicily, and this gesture likely occurred during the marriage of her son in 1177 to the daughter of Henry II. Notably, King Henry II had been involved in the events surrounding the murder of his former friend and chancellor, Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury. Thomas Becket was murdered on December 29, 1170, in a conflict that had significant religious and political implications during that era.
The pendant, with its inscriptions and references to holy relics, offers a glimpse into the intricate interplay of religion, politics, and personal relationships in medieval Europe during this period. It serves as an artifact with historical and cultural significance, providing insights into the events and figures of its time.