SEAL MATRIX

A complete post medieval silver seal matrix dating to the year 1792.

The openwork handle has a loop at the top with an oval perforation, a small knop is located at the top of the loop. The lower section of the openwork handle is attached to the matrix through a cylindrical projection. The die is in an oval shape. The hallmark is partially visible where the last two inscriptions can be seen, a lion and then a S. The first symbol in illegible, however, the lion symbol does show that the object was produced in London. The makers of the object are fully identifiable, as the initials GS//TH is visible. The design of the die has three wheat stalks located centrally at the top, and directly underneath it appears to be a line of twisted rope (which has been engraved more deeply than the rest of the design). Below this is a shield, with three pointed tips and a circle with a dotted border, with the initials JH. The rest of the shield space not taken up by the circle is decorated with dots.

The open work of this seal matrix appeared to be rather popular during the 1700's and are numerous across the database; BUC-6B6BC7 and BERK-9192E3 for example.

The makers of the object are George Smith and Thomas Hayter, 4 Haggin Lane, Wood Street, Parish of St Michaels, London. The identification of the makers has allowed the dating to be very precise.