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Description: | Cast lead or lead alloy 'vesica' shaped seal matrix of medieval date (1200-1400). The seal matrix is sub-oval (oval with pointed ends) in plan and sub-rectangular in cross section. It measures 32.1mm in length, 22.4mm width and is 4.3mm thick. The rear of the matrix has a vertical cast rib terminating in a small sub oval perforated projection or lug on its upper point. The lug measures 9.3mm in length, 3.8mm in width and it projects 1.6mm. The matrix weighs 11.93 grams. The overall condition of the matrix is poor as it has been badly abraded in the plough soil. This has led to much of the detail becoming lost.
The front face of the matrix consists of a central motif with an inscription reading anti-clockwise (clockwise in the impression) around the edge. The central motif is unclear and stylistic in form. The most likely interpretation is that of a long legged bird, possibly a stork or heron, seen from behind. However, another interpretation might be a crude representation of a woman. This central design is contained by a sub-oval (vesica shaped) incised border. This border separates the central motif from the inscription. The inscription has been partially lost due to abrasion, what remains reads either: S? FEI[?.] hORSNED' or possibly S? FEI[?.] hORSHED?. The inscription is formed from regular well cut letters. In the inscription the N is bared and the E is open, the letter R is formed with a wedged tail and the S has serif terminals. The reverse of the matrix is also decorated. The central cast rib is enclosed within an oval (concave) depression. One end terminates in a looped lug, whilst the other divides into two parts. Either side of the rib are a series of cast diagonal ribs forming either a stylised tree or possibly an ear of corn.
The seal is a mid brown colour with an even patina that covers most surfaces. There are a number of areas of abrasion present to both faces of the seal; this has worn away the patina and the edges of the matrix. This resulted in the damage present on the edge of the seal inscription and the creation of a very asymmetrical profile. Similar vesica shaped seals can be seen in the Salisbury Medieval Catalogue and are dated to the 13th Century (1200-1300). This seal matrix probably represents that of a personal seal. | Format: | text/html | License: | http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ | Publisher: | The Portable Antiquities Scheme | Rights holder: | The Portable Antiquities Scheme | Subjects: | archaeology | Temporal: | 1200
1400 | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Creator: | Peter Reavill | Identifier: | http://www.finds.org.uk/database/artefac... | Language: | en-GB | Format: | text/html | Go to resource |
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