Agnus Deis (medallions)

Refers to disks of wax bearing the sign of the Agnus Dei, which is a symbol of Christ in the form of a lamb bearing a cross with a halo round its head. The small cake of wax was stamped with such a figure and blessed by the Pope. The wax may be the remains of the Pascal candle, solemnly blessed by the Pope on the Thursday after Easter. Disks may be round or oval. Figures of saints or the name and arms of the Pope are commonly impressed on the reverse. Agnus Deis may be worn suspended round the neck, or they may be preserved as objects of devotion. In virtue of the consecration they receive, they are regarded as "sacramentals," like holy water or blessed palms.