MEDIEVAL SEAL MATRIX

1250

A cast copper alloy seal matrix of medieval date. It is pointed-oval in shape and flat, with high quality engraving. In the centre are two addorsed birds, possibly peacocks, with their bodies facing outwards. Their heads are turned to face each other over a small, triple branch within a border. There is also a small triple branch above the birds. Their feet can be seen pointing to the border. The inscription is set between borders and reads +S' EDWARD DE RAMSESTRE: (Seal of Edward of Ramsestre). The place-name is not easily identifiable; Ramchester would be obvious, but does not appear to exist. On the reverse of the seal matrix is a slightly raised central rib, with a collar, from which a small pierced attachment loop extends. There is no reverse initial mark, as the attachment loop would have been used to donate orientation. The metal is a dark greenish-brown colour and is worn. The seal matrix is 32.9mm long, 21.1mm wide, 9.3mm thick and weighs 12.9g. This seal matrix dates to circa 1250-1400.