POST MEDIEVAL SEAL MATRIX

1600

A Post Medieval silver seal matrix with engraved octagonal die. The base of the handle is octagonal in section; it is waisted at the centre and then splays outwards slightly towards the top of the handle. The top of the handle consists of an open work quatrefoil design which has flat faces on both sides. The top two openwork circles of the quatrefoil design are damaged and broken away in part. The octagonal die is engraved with a square topped shield; within the shield is a lion rampant facing right (the lion would face left on the seal impression). The shield is bordered by an ornate foliate design which travels along top and down both sides of the shield. An octagonal beaded border surrounds the whole design.Discussion: It has not been possible to identify the seal with an individual or family; it is possible that this seal was one of a type that could be purchased for general use. A similar silver seal matrix, dated to the late 17th century, with a similar overall form (but different die engraving) can be seen on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database: NARC-BDF942 (2013 T87).Dimensions: Die length: 16 mm; Die width: 14 mm; Overall height: 22mm