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SEAL MATRIX
Unique ID: BH-28CE1F
Object type certainty: Certain
Workflow
status: Awaiting validation 
A Medieval copper-alloy seal matrix.
An engraved cross divides the circular printing face of the matrix into four equal-sized segments. Two diagonally opposed quadrants are occupied by the same design of a forward-facing zoomorphic mask of feline appearance. A pointed tongue extends from the mouth of each animal, the two meeting at the centre of the cross. Matching designs also occupy the two other diagonally opposing quadrants. This design is broadly triangular, with a number of short, longitudinal grooves creating a textured surface. What these symbols represent is uncertain, with suggestions ranging from a wheatsheaf to a hedgehog; alternatively, they may be designed to represent the bodies of the cats. The faceted handle tapers upwards from behind the printing face, before flaring into a perforated, lozenge-shaped suspension loop.
Height: 20.4mm; diameter of printing face: 16mm. Weight: 5.52g.
The recorder knows of no parallels for this unusual form of device; however, the form and size of the matrix itself strongly suggest a 14th century date.
Find of note status
This has been noted as an interesting find by the recorder.
Subsequent actions
Subsequent action after recording: Returned to finder
Chronology
Broad period: MEDIEVAL
Period from: MEDIEVAL
Date from: Circa AD 1300
Date to: Circa AD 1400
Dimensions and weight
Quantity: 1
Height: 20.4 mm
Weight: 5.52 g
Diameter: 16 mm
Discovery dates
Date(s) of discovery: Sunday 25th May 2014
Personal details
This information is restricted for your access level.
Other reference numbers
Other reference: Ver 14/80 - 2
Materials and construction
Primary material: Copper alloy
Manufacture method: Cast
Completeness: Complete
Spatial metadata
Region: Eastern (European Region)County or Unitary authority: Essex (County)
District: Uttlesford (District)
To be known as: Chrishall
Spatial coordinates
Grid reference source: Generated from computer mapping software
Unmasked grid reference accurate to a 10 metre square.
References cited
No references cited so far.
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Timeline of associated dates
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