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SEAL MATRIX
Unique ID: SF-3B1FD1
Object type certainty: Certain
Workflow
status: Awaiting validation 
A complete cast lead seal matrix dating to the Medieval period, c. 1200-1300. It is vesica shaped (pointed oval) and flat, demonstrating an undrilled lug at one end on its upper surface, the latter accompanied by moulded vegetal frond-like decoration. The underside of the matrix is engraved with the central design of a fleur de lis within an inner solid border, accompanied by the inscription; S' MATIL[...]W[..]O[..]E (Seal of Matilda.....). Preserved in fair condition despite some minor losses to its edges, it measures 32.82mm long, 25.11mm wide at its midpoint, 8.06mm thick at the projecting lug, and weighs 12.41g.
Personal vesica-shaped seal matrices are generally a feature of the 13th century, being replaced in the early decades of the 14th century by pedestal type matrices demonstrating stock motifs and religious inscriptions.
Class:
personal
Sub class: woman
Inscription:
S' MATIL[...]W[..]O[..]E
Subsequent actions
Subsequent action after recording: Returned to finder
Chronology
Broad period: MEDIEVAL
Period from: MEDIEVAL
Period to: MEDIEVAL
Date from: Circa AD 1200
Date to: Circa AD 1300
Dimensions and weight
Quantity: 1
Length: 32.82 mm
Width: 25.11 mm
Thickness: 8.06 mm
Weight: 12.41 g
Discovery dates
Date(s) of discovery: Monday 8th January 2018
Personal details
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Materials and construction
Primary material: Lead
Completeness: Complete
Surface Treatment: Incised or engraved or chased
Spatial metadata
Region: Eastern (European Region)County or Unitary authority: Suffolk (County)
District: St. Edmundsbury (District)
To be known as: Bradfield St Clare
Spatial coordinates
Grid reference source: GPS (from the finder)
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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