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Description: | A complete cast copper alloy seal matrix of Medieval date. The matrix has a conical handle that is faceted and hexagonal in shape. The conical handle has a raised collar with transverse incised groove below and trefoil shaped terminal above. The terminal is pierced with a small circular hole. The die is oval in shape and measures 26mm in length by 20.98mm in width. The central decorative motif depicts Mary with child and possible stylised palm leaves in the field to her left. This is contained within an unevenly incised inner border. Around the border is a legend that reads *AVE VE MARIA GRACIA. The entire object measures 28.06mm in height, 26mm in length, 20.98mm in width, and weighs 18.76g.
The depiction of pious scenes and phrases on seal matrices is a common feature from the 14th century onwards (see Harvey and McGuinness, 1996: pp. 88). The use of 'AVE MARIA' (Hail Mary) and 'AVE MARIA GRACIA' (Hail Mary [full of] grace) also occurs frequently (Harvey and McGuinness, 1996: pp. 88, 114). This example is of 14th century AD date. Inscription: *AVE VE MARIA GRACIA | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Creator: | Brown, Andrew | Identifier: | http://www.findsdatabase.org.uk/hms/pas_... | Language: | en-GB | Go to resource |
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