14th-15th century AD. A large pewter badge of lion statant with open mouth and protruding tongue, raised mane and fur detailing. 6.2 grams, 63mm (2 1/2"). Found on the Thames foreshore, near the Tower, 1980s. The crest of the Bruce clan comprises a lion statant within a buckled garter bearing the word 'Fuimus' (we have been"). The crest was often used as a livery badge by members of a noble household. The Bruce clan came to England from Brix, Normandy, France with King Henry I after the battle of Tinchebray in 1106; Robert, the founder, received lands in Yorkshire, mainly in Annandale. His descendant, Robert de Brus, was a companion of Prince David, later King David I of Scotland. In 1124 Robert supported Prince David's claim to the Scottish crown. King David attempted to capitalise on the Anarchy (the period of conflict between King Stephen and Empress Matilda) by staging an invasion. Robert de Brus did not take part in the invasion, and eventually joined the English at the Battle of the Standard in 1138 where he took his own son prisoner. Robert died in 1141 and was buried at Gysburn, the religious house which he had founded.