MEDIEVAL SEAL MATRIX

1300

A cast copper-alloy seal matrix of Medieval date. The seal matrix is pointed oval in plan, the reverse is broadly flat with evidence of possible solder in the centre (c. 20mm in length and c. 20mm wide). No loop or casting ridge is visible on the reverse, the reverse is uneven in places. The inscription is located within the circumferential band on the front face and runs from 10 o'clock to 2 o'clock counter clockwise. The black letter script inscription reads SIgILLUM SUB DECAnAT ECCL'IE SARI, the engraving of the S of SIGILLUM is deeper than the remaining inscription, consequently the S on an impression is raised. The device consists of the Virgin Mary with child standing in front of a elaborate altar consisting of two pillars topped with crosses which support a triangular altar which is decorated with a central circular device. The altar terminates with a further cross which is flanked by two branches. Below the Virgin Mary are three inverted triangles located below a raised horizontal line. The dress of the Virgin Mary is decorated with transverse lines depicting drapery, Mary is wearing a crown and a halo is visible on the child.The seal matrix is 51.05mm in length, 32.2mm wide, 2.8mm thick and weighs 21.36 grams.The inscription can be translated as 'seal of the sub-dean of the church of Salisbury'. Wiltshire was divided into two main archdeaconries, Wiltshire and Salisbury, covering respectively the northern and southern parts of the county, and a minor one called the sub-deanery of Salisbury which suggests that this is the seal of the sub deanery of Salisbury. It has also been suggested that this example is the seal of a sub dean of the cathedral, John Cherry has suggested that if this is the case it is possible that the crudeness of the design, as well as the lack of a reverse loop, indicate that it might be a contemporary forgery. There are two seals of medieval sub-deans of Salisbury surviving on documents in Salisbury Cathedral archives, one (Press IV, Box Mx7) dated 2 Feb. 1289/90 and the second (Press III) dated 17 Dec. 1333.