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SEAL MATRIX
Unique ID: IOW-A76AD8
Object type certainty: Certain
Workflow
status: Published 
A complete cast copper-alloy Medieval seal matrix (c. 1200-c. 1300).
The whole of the seal matrix, except for the suspension loop is, is hexagonal in cross-section. The handle has a narrow waist and is divided from the suspension loop by a collar, also hexagonal in cross-section. Viewed from the side, the suspension loop is lozenge-shaped and has a circular perforation, 3.6mm in diameter. Viewing an impression of the engraved die, it has a double-lined beaded border containing the inscription. From the top, from right to left, following a six-pointed star initial mark, the inscription reads: * S': MAThIS.VANKERE (Seal of Matthew Vankere). At the centre of the die, within the beaded border, there is a rotary key with a lozenge shaped bow and knops at each corner. The bow is at the bottom and the bit is on the right side at the top. Between the stem and the bow of the key a small collar is depicted. Although the forename is clear, the surname is extremely hard to read and there is no obvious English translation.
This seal matrix is in fair condition and has a dark green to brown patina. It is also corroded in places. File marks are visible in places, particularly around the narrow waist and there is a considerable amount of wear in places. Soil adhering to the object is concreted.
22.9 x 20.6 x 16.4mm. Weight: 10.72g.
Inscription:
* S': MAThIS.VANKERE
Subsequent actions
Subsequent action after recording: Returned to finder
Chronology
Broad period: MEDIEVAL
Period from: MEDIEVAL
Period to: MEDIEVAL
Date from: Circa AD 1200
Date to: Circa AD 1300
Dimensions and weight
Quantity: 1
Length: 22.9 mm
Width: 20.6 mm
Thickness: 16.4 mm
Weight: 10.72 g
Discovery dates
Date(s) of discovery: Wednesday 21st April 2010
Personal details
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Other reference numbers
Other reference: IOW2010-1-245
Materials and construction
Primary material: Copper alloy
Decoration method: Engraved
Completeness: Complete
Spatial metadata
Region: South East (European Region)County or Unitary authority: Isle of Wight (Unitary Authority)
District: Isle of Wight (Unitary Authority)
To be known as: Isle of Wight
Spatial coordinates
Grid reference source: GPS (from the finder)
Unmasked grid reference accurate to a 1 metre square.
References cited
No references cited so far.
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Timeline of associated dates
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