POST MEDIEVAL SEAL MATRIX

Unknown artist

A Post Medieval silver seal matrix of seventeenth to eighteenth century date. See Treasure report excerpts below for details.Description: A silver seal matrix with engraved oval die. The base of the handle is octagonal in section; the rest of the handle is broken away and is missing. The face of the oval die is somewhat worn and the engraving is not clear in some places. At the bottom is a square topped shield; within the shield is an engraving of a double-headed eagle with open wings. Above the shield is an engraving of what appears to be a helm, above which is a fist clenching a bird's leg. The shield is bordered by an ornate foliate design on both sides of the shield. An oval beaded border surrounds the whole design.Dimensions: Die length: 19.5 mm; Die width: 17 mm; Overall height: 8mm weight: 4.08g.Discussion: The arms on the face of the matrix may be those of the Worth family: 'Argent an eagle displayed with two necks sable beaked and legged gules', the crest 'an arm erect vested argent gloved ermines, holding an eagle's leg couped at the thigh or' (Burke, 1136).A similar silver seal matrix from Devon, dated to the late seventeenth century, with a similar overall form (but different die engraving) can be seen on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database: DEV-A0F834 (2014 T334).Conclusion: Due to its age and precious metal content, this item would qualify as treasure under the Treasure Act 1996.