Medal `talar` (`mendal`)

The silver locket, used as jewellery for a woman's festive costume, is made from a coin – a thaler from the times of Maria Theresa (with the date 1779, the coat of arms and the inscription slightly worn in some places). The pendant was created by adding a link to the upper part, on which the medallion could be placed on a band. In this case, the link was attached to a silver ball, and for the additional effect, it was decorated on both sides with two snails made of a thin sheet of cloth.

The coins were used as pendants because they were made from high-grade bullion. Here, it is silver, which in the folk culture was the most valued metal after gold. Thanks to its light colour, lustre and sound, it symbolises purity, brightness and health. It was also believed that objects made of silver ensured communication with the moon, stars and water. Silver was also widely used in magical and medicinal practices, as it was supposed to ensure health, prosperity and wealth.

The presented medallion is hung on a red band, the colour of which is not accidental, as it was considered special and had protective properties. Above all, it was supposed to protect people from spells, demons and other dangers. In the past, villagers would take an iron object or a red ribbon or piece of cloth with them on a long journey to protect themselves from any threat. In this case, this relatively modest decoration protected its owner twice over. It was also an indication of her wealth, as not everyone in the countryside could afford such jewellery.