MEDIEVAL SEAL MATRIX

1200

Vesica shaped lead seal matrix. The reverse of the seal has no suspension loop, or indeed any damage to suggest that one is missing. The centre of the reverse bears a crude incised fleur-de-lis, and surrounding the decoration is a crude incised legend. The legend is very worn and difficult to read, but some letters are visible, perhaps: IVF[ ]E. The crude etching is presumably the test markings before die cutting, or perhaps represents the very worn side of a double-sided seal, in which case the name of the person may pertain to the wife of 'John', who is named on the other side.The other side of the seal is decorated in the centre with a fleur-de-lis with a transverse collar to it near the bottom of the stem. The legend surrounding the centre-piece is very worn, and may read: S'IOHANIS GO?W?, meaning, 'Seal of John Gow[ ].