SEAL MATRIX

A Post Medieval silver seal matrix probably dating from AD 1600 - 1800. Only the face of the matrix survives and it is oval with a faceted hexagonal handle behind, broken across the rectangular sectioned stem. The matrix depicts a bird, perhaps an eagle, with an open beak, raised wings, a square tail, and what appear to be bells projecting from the back of its legs. It is depicted in profile facing left (on the impression). Flanking the bird are the initials C F, though the C has been engraved to read correctly on the matrix, making it reversed on the impression. The F has prominent backward projecting serifs, and may be intended to be an I or an E. The design is within an oval beaded border. There is no orientation mark or initials on the reverse of the matrix, though there are a few shallow circular holes; these are probably damage or flaws in the metal. The matrix is 14.5mm long, 12.4mm wide and 5.2mm tall (as broken). 2.02g.

Two other seal matrices reported as Treasure and recorded with the Portable Antiquities Scheme feature a similar motif: 2014 T486 (BH-7064C1) and 2012 T423 (WAW-3A8C15), and they were given a 17^th century date. These birds are more stylised than that on the subject matrix. A further similar seal matrix bearing a cockerel isESS-62BFF6 which could not be securely dated to postAD1716, so was not Treasure. 2015 T633 (WAW-71E2D3) is of similar design, but the pierced heart design allows it to be attributed to the 17th century. Other seal matrices with a central motif and initials include WMID-BD4622 and CORN-9BDE96, neither of which are conclusively 300 years old.