|
Date: |
|
Description: | An incomplete copper alloy oval seal matrix of the Medieval Period, dating to AD 1200 - AD 1400.The seal matrix is oval in shape and sub rectangular in cross section. On the reverse there is evidence of a suspension loop, which has been broken, presumably in antiquity. The suspension loop would have held the chain that was connected to the belt. The front of the matrix has a lozenge shaped border made up of tiny diagonal, horizontal and vertical lines, inside of which is an inscription that reads (possibly): S' SECRETI RIC-ARDI DE I[... ], though due to corrosion the last part of the legend is difficult to decipher.The initial mark is a cross potent.The central design is (in reverse) a bird, facing right pecking at its beast with one wing outstretched, over a nest of three young birds, facing left, with beaks raised.The matrix measures 29.4 mm in length and is 22.7 mm wide. It has a thickness of 5.6 mm including the remains of the suspension loop and 2.6 mm when not. It weighs 7.9 g.The matrix is a dark green in colour and has an even patina. Abrasion caused by movement whilst within the plough soil may have resulted in the loss of some of the original surface detail.The central designis a pelican in its piety, pecking at its breast to feeding its young with its own blood. This was a symbol of Christ's sacrifice, and has been recorded on a number of medieval seal matrices including WMID-108C08. The seal matrix described in this record is likely to date from the late twelfth century to the fourteenth century.
Original Image | Publisher: | http://finds.org.uk | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Identifier: | https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/ | Go to resource |
|
More Like this...
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
SEAL MATRIX
Incomplete copper-alloy seal matrix, missing…
-
|