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SEAL MATRIX
Unique ID: IOW-0930F0
Object type certainty: Certain
Workflow
status: Awaiting validation 
A complete cast copper-alloy seal matrix of Medieval date (1250-1400).
The suspension loop is roughly lozenge-shaped with a circular opening. Below the loop, the pedestal is hexagonal in cross-section. It flares from the loop to a circular die, 15.8mm in diameter. Between the loop and the pedestal there is a minor collar. The die depicts two figures within a beaded border, that of the Virgin and Child. The Virgin is seated on a small bench and she is holding Jesus to her left (as viewing an impression). Their attire is indistinct and unclear but the Virgin has a long dress with a cowled hood. The facial features of the Virgin are clearly defined with larger than life lips and a prominent straight nose. At either side of the figures there are flowers, probably lilies. Viewing an impression, an inscription reads from right to left: MATER DEI MEMEMTO MEI (Mother of God remember me).
The seal matrix has a dark green patina although the die has tiny areas of corrosion within the crevices.
Length: 13.8mm; diameter: 15.8mm in diameter. Weight: 5.27g.
This type of seal is dated to the late thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, 1250-1400. Similar parallels can be seen in Salisbury Medieval Catalogue (Part 1) pages 27-39.
Find of note status
This is a find of note and has been designated: County / local importance
Inscription:
MATER DEI MEMEMTO MEI
Subsequent actions
Subsequent action after recording: Returned to finder
Chronology
Broad period: MEDIEVAL
Subperiod from: Early
Period from: MEDIEVAL
Subperiod to: Early
Period to: MEDIEVAL
Date from: Circa AD 1250
Date to: Circa AD 1400
Dimensions and weight
Quantity: 1
Length: 13.8 mm
Weight: 5.27 g
Diameter: 15.8 mm
Discovery dates
Date(s) of discovery: Monday 26th March 2007
Personal details
This information is restricted for your access level.
Other reference numbers
Other reference: IOW2010-1-266
Materials and construction
Primary material: Copper alloy
Manufacture method: Cast
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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