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Description: | A copper-alloy double sided matrix or punch. The object is oval in plan, measuring 18.64 mm long and 16.09 mm wide. It is 4.06 mm thick and weighs 4.7 grams. The design appears to be moulded, and one side bears the bust of a bearded man facing right in hollow relief. The other side of the matrix depicts a dove in flight facing right holding an olive branch in its beak, above what appear to be flowers. The matrix has a die axis of 6, and at the top and bottom a hole has been bored, presumably to allow attachment of the matrix to a handle or mount of some sort.The depiction of the dove and olive branch on one side of the matrix suggests that it is likely to be post-medieval in date, as this motif was used widely as a symbol for peace during the 18th century, though it was also used in early Christian art (the dove and olive branch referring to the story of the Great Flood in Genesis). It is unclear who the bearded figure on the other side of the matrix is intended to represent, but given the presence of the dove on the reverse it seems quite possible that it may be Noah or another Biblical character. The style of execution of the design on both faces is probably more suggestive of a post-medieval to modern date.The matrix is quite worn and suffers from some corrosion. It has a dark brown patina with green in places.
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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