E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Mugello.
The giant slain by Averardo de Medici, a commander under Charlemagne. The tale is interesting, for it is said that the Medici took the three balls of this giant’s mace for their device. Everyone knows that pawn-brokers have adopted the three balls as a symbol of their trade. (See under BALLS for another account.)
