File:2007T403 Silver seal matrix (FindID 189992).jpg

Date: Post Medieval. late 17th Century

Date of discovery: June 2007

Circumstances of discovery: Whilst searching with a metal detector

PAS Record Number: HESH-1D4423

Description:

Silver pedestal / pendant seal matrix. The die (face of the seal) is oval in plan and the reverse pedestal rises to a double moulded band which terminates in a pierced / perforated suspension loop. The body of the matrix is a pedestal which has been formed with a smooth surface (that is with no facets). The lower half of the seal appears to have been damaged or repaired (probably in antiquity) and this has left a discoloured band of silver at its base. The perforated loop is formed from an irregular lozenge shaped plate from which a series of three knops expand. The uppermost is slightly damaged and bent. The lozenge shaped plate has been pierced in three places by two circular holes which flank a central sub-rectangular one. The die is well cut and consists of a central image contained within an incised oval pellet border which respects the outer edge of the seal. The oval pellets would form a rope like border in the impression. There is no inscription. The design of the seal consists of two main elements these are two hearts above which is positioned a crown. The two hearts are formed from shallow oval incised scoops which are irregular in shape and design. The crown is formed with a central fleur-de-lis formed from a central wedge and bordered by two pellets. The side fleurs of the crown are bi-foliate. The band of the crown is decorated with a series of sub-triangular wedges. The edge of the die has suffered from abrasion caused by movement in the plough soil. This has distorted parts of the seal, especially the outer border.

Discussion

This type of seal is dates from the later half of the 17th century and is often associated with the restoration of the Monarchy; specifically the marriage between Charles II and Catherine of Braganza - evidence for such a precise link has not, however, been substantiated. It is likely that this would have acted as a personal seal for the closing of letters / correspondence. This style of seal matrix has previously been reported as treasure and a good comparable example can be seen in the Treasure Annual Report 2003 from Metfield, Suffolk (Rudoe, 2005: 134). The style of the device on the seal is similar to that on a number of silver buttons, also reported as treasure, (2002-T133, 2004-T212 -T213, -T220, -T362), however this design has not (to my knowledge) been recorded on a seal matrix before. It seems that the device was popular during the late Stuart period so its appearance as a seal is not unexpected.

Dimensions:

The die is oval in plan measuring 11.9mm x 11.4mm. The reverse rises to a height of 19.6mm. The seal matrix weighs 3.94 grams.

Statement

Metal Content I believe that the precious metal content (silver) of this seal matrix fulfils the requirements of the Treasure Act (1996) in that it is greater than 10%.

References:

Geake, H. and Thornton, D. 2003: Wickham Skeith, Suffolk (2): Post-medieval silver button (2002-T133) in Treasure Annual Report 2001, London: DCMS p81

McDonald CA, 2006a: East of Colchester, Essex: Post-medieval silver button (2004-T220) in Treasure Annual Report 2004, London: DCMS p119

McDonald CA, 2006b: Sible Hedingham, Essex: Post-medieval silver button (2004-T362) in Treasure Annual Report 2004, London: DCMS p120

Rudoe, J. 2005: Metfield area, Suffolk: Post-medieval silver seal die (2003-T157) in Treasure Annual Report 2003,London: DCMS

Thornton, D, 2006a: Cundall, North Yorkshire: Post-medieval copper-alloy button (2004-T212) in Treasure Annual Report 2004, London: DCMS p120

Thornton, D, 2006b: Cundall, North Yorkshire: Post-medieval copper-alloy button (2004-T213) in Treasure Annual Report 2004, London: DCMS p121

Author

Peter Reavill Finds Liaison Officer: Portable Antiquities Scheme

August 2007