Four medieval gemellions will be sold at Stroud Auctions on September 11-13, each with a guide price of £2000-4000. These 13th century French copper and champlevé enamel bowls, almost certainly from Limoges, were used as part of the ceremonial washing of hands at the medieval dinner table.
The name comes from the Latin word gemellio meaning twin, and the bowls were used in pairs – one having a small spout from which water would be poured (such as that pictured), with the second used as the receptacle. Each 9in (23cm) bowl has contrasting decoration, including heraldic shields, hunting scenes and dancing women.
The local vendor was unaware what the items were although they had been in the family for many years.
