Pamono Antique French Saint Benedict Medal Charm Pendant in 18 Karat Yellow Gold> Necklaces

An antique French 18 karat (18K) yellow gold charm pendant designed as a medal depicting Saint Benedict in a gothic frame with the papal mitre and crozier to the left, and a poisoned cup with serpent entwined around the stem and a cross above it to the right. The reverse depicts a cross within a gothic frame, topped with the initials IHS, containing the letters C S S M L – N D S M D, initials of the words Crux sacra sit mihi lux! Nunquam draco sit mihi dux! (‘May the holy cross be my light! May the dragon never be my overlord!’). Surrounding this are the letters are the letters V R S N S M V – S M Q L I V B, in reference to Vade retro satana: Vade retro Satana! Nunquam suade mihi vana! Sunt mala quae libas. Ipse venena bibas! (‘Begone Satan! Never tempt me with your vanities! What you offer me is evil. Drink the poison yourself!’) Stamped with the horse’s head mark for 18 karat gold and French manufacture, along with an unknown maker’s mark. Dimensions: 1.8 x 1.5 x 0.11 cm (not including jump ring) Weight: 2.05 grams (Chain not included)