These two silver shields were used during the funeral ceremonies of members of the St Victor’s, or Grain Millers’ guild. When a member died, he was carried out to burial by his guild brothers. The coffin was covered with a black shroud, to which silver shields like this one were affixed during the ceremony. The shields generally displayed the group’s patron saint, tools or trademarks of the profession. The number of shields and adornments on the shroud indicated the deceased’s status within the guild. The Amsterdam Grain Millers’ guild included not only bosses and foremen, but also mill owners. St Victor served as their patron saint. Guild members enjoyed certain privileges, such as guarantee of work, care and burial services. To become a member, citizens (poorters) officially registered as professional tradesmen were made to undertake a master’s test, thereby proving their professional competence. It was also common for guilds to demand an entry fee.