In the wake of the Battle of Lepanto, John of Austria was grateful for the assistance of Saint James, patron saint of Spain. He sent a variety of pieces as an offering, including a large number of badges, military standards and banners, and other military items, such as different weapons, armor, and some valuable and highly famed equipment. The "Gallardete de Lepanto" pennant is the only one that still exists today.
It is made from 17 meters of linen fabric decorated in tempera with colorful scenes and coats of arms. Beginning at the top of the pennant, on a background of 3 stripes—red, gold, and blue—there are depictions of a Calvary; a Throne of Grace; the Lion of Saint Mark (Venice); the imperial coat of arms of the House of Austria; the Gryphon (Genoa); the images of Saint John the Evangelist, Saint James (dressed as a pilgrim), and Saint John the Baptist; and the shields of Castile and the House of Savoy.
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