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Description: | Cast copper alloy seal matrix, 13th to 14th century. The seal has a pointed oval shape 'vessica' form. On the reverse is a median raised rib, approximately 2.7mm wide, down the length . Near the top of the rib is a lug with a single piercing. The die of the seal has been engraved. The central motif is 21.9mm long by 10.9mm wide. Its upper section contains two figures the larger of the two and is wearing a three pointed crown and is looking outwards. According to David Symons (Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery), the figure is the Virgin Mary, the Crown signifying her as 'Queen of Heaven'. The figure on the right is much smaller, and is thought to represent Jesus as a child. He is looking towards Mary and has his arms out in front of him. Above his head is a single star. The lower part of the motif contains a figure of the supplicant. His sleeve extends briefly into the inscription. The inscription taken from an impression reads '+ MATER DEI MISERERE MEI' which translates as 'Mother of god have mercy on me. The seal is dark green in colour and shows little sign of wear. The seal is 31.7mm in length, 22.1mm wide, 2.5mm thick and weighs 8.0g.
Original Image | Publisher: | http://finds.org.uk | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Identifier: | http://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/r... | Go to resource |
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SEAL MATRIX
Copper alloy, hexagonally-facetted conical handle…
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