SEAL MATRIX

A silver post-medieval seal matrix, dating to the late 17^th to 18^th century. The seal matrix has a conical handle (hexagonally faceted) which terminates in an openwork trefoil terminal with three inverted drop-shaped apertures. On top of this terminal is a small, rounded knop.

The base of the seal matrix is oval, and features a shield divided into quarters, surrounded on either side by foliage and topped by a helm out of which sprout five ostrich plumes. On the top right and bottom left quarters there is the lion rampant, whilst the top left and bottom right quarters have the Saltire motif. The crosses of the Saltire have incised dots, which may have denoted colour. The entire motif is bound within a stippled or annulet border.

Dimensions: It measures 22.71mm in length and 14.64mm in diameter. In total, it weighs 6.28g.

Discussion and Date: A number of similar seal matrices have been reported under the Treasure Act and/or recorded with the Portable Antiquities Scheme. Their dating is usually based on small variations in the stylistic elements. Trefoil-handled matrices of this precise design have been judged to be both greater than (see 2013 T137; DOR-0D2272) and less than (see SWYOR-6ADD5E) 300 years old. The notes accompanying the former record state 'A number of personal seal-dies in the BM with openwork trefoil handle on a stemmed and faceted base are dated 16th-17th century (eg. BM Tonnochy seal-die Cat. 496, 664, 666, 675-8). But none has the foliate points and scrolls that appear on this example; these decorative elements are more usually found on 18th century seal-dies (eg. Tonnochy Cat. 451, 505), but in these examples the handle is set straight onto a squat base, rather than a stemmed and faceted base.'

The arms on the face appear consistent with those on other 17^th century matrices, (see 2015 T736; HAMP-38D344; associated with a Dr Layfield whose arms were confirmed in 1639) with elaborate mantling. More research is required to determine their association; the lion rampant and saltire are common in Scottish arms.