SEAL MATRIX

­­Report for H.M. Coroner: Treasure Case 2012 T552 (WAW-3F0B60)

Silver Seal Matrix from Alvechurch, Worcestershire

A Post Medieval silver gilt seal matrix: The matrix is a pyramid type, which has an oval base. The reverse of the matrix has a hexagonal sectioned stem which terminates with a collar above which it is broken, originally there would have been a loop which is now missing. The break is not too recent. The edges of the base is damaged and scuffed. The devise on the underside of the matrix depicts a crown surmounting two hearts which are both pierced by an arrow. There is a small wavy lines below the hearts which are probably intended to be drops of blood, making it a bleeding heart design. There are very short radiating lines above the heart. The matrix measures 8.87mm long, 11.51mm wide, 8.87mm thick and weighs 0.8g. It is in poor condition.

The imagery on the matrix resembles that on late 17^th -early 18^th Century buttons and cufflinks, see TAR 2005-6, Nos. 615-6. This would seem to be the right dating for this decorative seal matrix. There are many other seal matrices with this design recorded on the PAS database. They include DOR-455AD3 (2011 T372), SWYOR-2F5652 (2011 T423), SOM-46A145, SUR-2ABDA7, SUSS-8A6B12 (2009 T27), SWYOR-6F43F2 (2011 T528), and PAS-8E6B26 (2005 T491).

Consequently in terms of age and as the object contains a minimum of 10% precious metal it qualifies as Treasure under the stipulations of the Treasure Act 1996.

Angie Bolton

November 2012