MEDIEVAL SEAL MATRIX

1200

A complete Medieval cast copper-alloy seal matrix (1200-1300).The seal has a conical handle which is faceted and hexagonal in cross-section. At the top it has a trefoil terminal with a circular piercing for perforation. Below the terminal is a double collar. On one facet, close to the base, there is an inscribed saltire cross.The die is in the form of the head of a lion, with its tongue sticking out, and a mane on its chest. The drawing is very poor, but it's supposed to be a "lion sejant guardant" It is encircled by an inscription:SOVTI MPTSOVTI might have something to do with "sovereign" - the lion being the king of the beasts and found on important arms. MPT is unclear as to its meaning.It has small areas of corrosion and is mainly coated with a shiny green patina.Height: 26.67mm; diameter at base: 17.39mm. Weight: 8.69g.The recorder acknowledges the help of Irene Szymanski who has kindly identified the animal and commented on this seal matrix.