SEAL MATRIX

Incomplete Medieval cast lead alloy seal matrix.  The matrix is a pointed oval (or vessica) shape with a raised fleur-de-lis design and suspension loop on the reverse.  The design of the main seal face consists of a sun and moon central design with inscription surrounding.  Due to damage and wear the inscription is difficult to read but possibly reads S:ROB[...]F:R[?I]O[...]R V/O or S:ROB[...]F:R'DERVI[...].  The inscriptions on seal matrices tend to be quite formulaic and despite the damage and incompleteness it is possible to suggest that the translation of such an inscription will essentially read something along the lines of Seal of Robert son of R..... or Seal of Robert son of R[obert] of [placename].  The 'S:' is an abbreviation of Sigillum, the latin word for seal; 'F:' is an abbreviation of Filius, the latin word for 'son of'.  In the second possible interpretation it has been assumed that the R' is an abbreaviation for ROB[...] with father and son having the same names and the 'DE' means 'of'.  Identifying DE in matrix inscriptions can aid the division of the inscription into name and placename.  In this case the placename starts RVI (Rui...).

Harvey and McGuiness (1996, p.79) suggest that this type of oval seal became popular in the early 13th century. The fleur de lis was also a particularly common design on this type of seal (ibid. p.80). There was a change in styles of seals at the end of the 13th century, with the owner's name often being omitted in favour of a phrase or motto (ibid. p.88), so this matrix is likely to predate this. This seal has therefore been dated AD. c.1200-1300.