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Description: | The object is probably a personal Medieval seal matrix. The matrix is a pyramid type, made from cast copper alloy and then it has been engraved. In plan the matrix is circular with abraded edges. The reverse of the matrix has a central integral hexagonal sectioned stem which tapers to a broken terminal which originally would have been a loop. The underside of the matrix has a legend and central device. The legend is illegible. The device is the torsos and heads of two people, a man and a woman, facing each other. There is a heart between their chests and a quatrefoil above their heads. The matrix measures 15.65mm diameter, and 14.34mm thick. It weighs 4.3g. The surface of the matrix has an abraded surface. Harvey and McGuinness (1996 A Guide to British Medieval Seals British Library and Public Record Office) suggest that small circular based seal matrices in use in the 13th century, but the more intricate the design, occurred in the later 13th to 14th centuries. This type of seal matrix is probably a 'love and loyalty' type which were popular in the late 13th to 14th centuries.
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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