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A ferrous seal matrix with three faces. There is an undecorated, D-shaped loop of iron of circular section. On the upright of the D is mounted a prism-shaped piece of iron with rounded ends and three flat sides on to each of which a different matrix is engraved. At one time, this would have rotated to allow the use of different seals, but the matrix is corroded and it is now locked in place. The three matrices are also corroded, but appear to depict (described from the impressions): 1) a human figure, advancing left, holding a staff (rifle?) in a horizontal position, with an illegible legend; 2) a female bust facing left, wearing a head dress with drapery down to the shoulders, similar to depictions of Queen Victoria in later life, again, with an illegible legend; and 3) an uncertain device, maybe a tree, a letter Y, or a goblet, apparently, without a legend. The matrix is 24.8 mm wide, 22.9mm high, and 14.9mm thick. It weighs 13.97gm. A seal matrix of similar but more ornate design can be seen on http://www.ukdfd.co.uk/ceejays_site/pages/SealMatrix7.htm and a date of 1650 – 1750 is suggested. It is described as follows: An unusual type of fob seal dating to the late-17th and early-18th centuries has three engraved faces, usually heraldic, on a triangular matrix which is set to swivel within an openwork handle (above; left). The face of the die required for sealing is held into position by a clip actuated by a spring and screw. Swivel seals are more commonly found with a double matrix as the example illustrated (above; centre). Yet another type has multi-arm seals with a different die on each face (above; right). These are believed to date from the 17th century and the quality of engraving is usually poor and the devices generally non-heraldic. A similar date is date is likely for this example, given the very similar shape of the three sided matrix. However, the style of the bust and the possible interpretation of one design as a man with a hunting rifle could suggest a later date, perhaps into the 19th century.

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Created: Thursday 16th July 2009
Updated: Thursday 24th February 2011