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Description: | Complete (but in two parts) 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 37.8mm in length, 24.5mm width and is 10.2mm (maximum) thick. On the upper edge of the seal, in alignment with the two pointed ends, is a small sub-rectangular (rectangular with rounded corners) perforated lug. This lug is set at an angle of 90° to the plain of the body of the seal and is broken into two parts. This break is relatively modern and both pieces were recovered from the same excavated hole. The reverse of the matrix is plain and undecorated. The matrix weighs 19.2 grams. The design on 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 formed from four irregular shaped oval loops arranged so their tips meet at the centre of the seal forming a cross. The vertical axis of this cross is longer than the horizontal one. The edges of this cross have been further decorated with a series of short diagonal incised lines, which have feathered the edges of the loops. This decoration is not as neat and regular as that on the rest of the seal. This central design is contained by a sub-oval (vesica shaped) incised border. This border separates the central motif from the inscription. The inscription is complete, however some areas have been damaged by abrasion. The inscription is formed from well cut, neat letters, it reads: S RICD EMERE. In the inscription the initial S is placed on its side, The R is relatively compact and angular with the tail being formed with a single narrow foot, The C is open where as the E's are all closed. It is interesting to note that the two R's differ from one another in form with the second being much wider and also less angular. The inscription is enclosed by a similar oval shaped border to that described above. The seal's inscription can be interpreted as the Seal of Ricard (Richard?) of Ellesmere. This would fit well with the findspot location, in that Ellesmere is only 15 miles from the findspot.The seal is a cream buff 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 affected a small area of the inscription. Similar vesica shaped seals can be seen in the Salisbury Medieval Catalogue and are dated to the 13th Century (1200-1300).
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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