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Description: | Medieval lead seal matrix probably of 13th century dateThe matrix is of lozenge or pointed-oval form (with a length of 31.0mm, a width of 16.6mm, a thickness of 2.7mm and a weight of 7.5g) and is complete but in two pieces, where the bottom fragment has been repaired by the finder. The rear has a loop at the apex (with a length of 9.5mm, a thickness of 3.4mm and giving an overall depth of 7.7mm), with a circular perforation (3.0mm diameter). The seal die has a central device depicting an eight-petalled flower. The encircling legend appears to read:+ S' : dd : I O W A N : X X : X X :Sigulum of dd IowanThe letters in the legend are comparatively crudely cut. The letter S is reversed and the suggested dd may be a decorative motif rather than letters. The use of lower case letters contrasts with the name in upper case. It is also possible that the seal is of David Iowan, where Iowan is the Welsh for John: Seal of David John.The break at the base of the matrix may be a deliberate cut, suggested by the regular V-shaped incision. The matrix may have been deliberately cut through the name to invalidate its use.
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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