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Description: | A seal matrix, with a conical handle - probably dating to the late 13th - 14th century. The seal matrix was cast in copper alloy, and then the face was chip carved. The handle has six subtle facets and terminates with a trefoil loop. Three collars are situated below the loop. The loop is pierced by a small circular hole.The face depicts an image of two clasped hands. The hands may be wearing either gloves or gauntlets. Above the hands there is a fine fleur de lis. The legend reads (in French) * IE SV SE[LLESV], which could translate to mean 'I am a True seal'. The legend has been written in a Lombardic style. This is a generic seal matrix legend as opposed to one that is specific to an individual. The legend begins with a six pointed star as the initial mark. There does not appear to be any markers of the reverse of the face, to indicate to the user which way around to hold and indeed use this matrix. The surface of the copper alloy is slightly pitted, but the patina is smooth and shiny. The metal is a dark brownish-green colour. The edges of the face have been slightly damaged.
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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