King Baldwin I of Jerusalem Wooden Doll Ornament

Handmade original King Baldwin I of Jerusalem Wooden Doll Ornament. Perfect for the Christmas Tree. Bring out on his feast day. Gift for a birthday or sacrament (Baptism, First Communion, Confirmation, Holy Orders, Marriage) celebration. Teacher, priest, grandparent gift.

Born in 1161 in Jerusalem to King Amalric and Queen Agnes of Courtney. Intellectually and physically gifted as a boy, he seemed well equipped to inherit the Crusader kingdom. By 9 he had the early signs of leprosy with limb numbness. The King passed when he was 13, and despite his illness was unanimously crowned king by the High Court. His regent, Raymond, managed escalating tensions between the kingdom and Muslims through appeasement that favored the Muslims. One of Baldwin’s first actions as king at 15 was to reject the peace and raid the lands surrounding Damascus. While his illness progressed, he possessed strength and character necessary to rule. He would continue to lead his troops into battle for the Kingdom, never once using his sickness and rotting body to shirk his duty. Nearing his deathbed and unable to trust his brother-in-law to the throne, in 1183 he crowned his 5-year-old nephew, Baldwin V, co-king; he passed at 24 in 1885. Two years later the kingdom fell due to internal discord.

Made of wood, felt, ribbon, and handmade accessories. Includes tag and card with Saint's biography and description. Approximately 4" tall. Packaged in cellophane bag. Shipped in box with bubble wrap.