Order Of Malta? Bronze Doornail, Arma Militia Redemtionis Captivorum

Large domed door nail, sand-cast bronze, broken tip, a beautiful object 8cm in diameter, on centre: a coat of arms presented by 2 figures: the crowned Maltese cross: (sovereign order), and the letter M.
around, in rotating decoration: Arma Milice Redemtionis Captivorum. (Armed Militia for the redemption of captives?).
Object is apparently 18th century, its surface in very good condition, so much so that one wonders if it was ever mounted on a door or a building…
I don't know more, but thanks to my kind curious customers, I hope…
8cm x 6cm,
This lot is for immediate purchase, payable by Paypal or credit card.
- eclectic - antique dealers since 1970, Siret: FR 24.430113233.
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