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Description: | A complete copper-alloy conical or 'pedestal' seal matrix dating to the 14th century. It has a conical handle which tapers before widening with two grooved lines slightly below a flattened pierced terminal, probably to accommodate a chain or cord to allow the seal to be carried about the neck or secured about the person. Rust is present around the piercing maybe evidence of the now missing iron chain/ At the base the matrix widens to accommodate the circular die which is engraved with an uncertain central design. The design is uncertain but appears to resemble the not uncommon motif of a squirrel, but with the addition of a bird or similar straddling it. The Legend appears to be nonsensical with it reading 'S'OIOVIOIEII', although it maybe a now unknown Medieval Latin abbreviation.The seal is mottled dark-light green colour except around the suspension loop where orangey-brown rust adheres to it.Measurements: 23.07mm high, 18.01 in diamter at base and 7.45g in weight
Original Image | Publisher: | http://finds.org.uk | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Identifier: | https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/ | Go to resource |
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