SEAL MATRIX

An incomplete copper-alloy rotating double sided seal matrix from a fob seal of Post-Medieval date, c.AD 1756-1763. Only the matrix remains which is ovate in plane, rectangular in section and double-sided. The upper and lower ends are indented with circular impression 2.4mm in diameter and c. 3mm thick. These indentations would have accommodated a small spigot which would have enabled the matrix to swivel so that both faces could be used.

Both the front and rear faces of the seal matrix are decorated with an indnted design. One face has a crowned lion rampant facing right (advancing left in impression). It holds an orb with the left paw and probably a sceptre with its right paw. The other side shows the upper body and head of a clothed individual wearing a pointed hat facing right (facing left in the impression) with their left arm in front holding a baton and a sash across their chest. The design is surrounded by an inscription without dividing borders. The legend reads: FREDERIC - PRUSS . REX

The seal matrix measures 29.7 mm long, 18.5 mm wide (at centre), 4.0 mm thick (at centre) and weighs 8.98 grams.

This object is likely to have been made to commemorate the alliance of England with Frederick II, King of Prussia during the Seven Years' War of 1756 - 1763.

The Seven Years' War actually took place over nine years between 1754 and 1763; the main conflict occurring during the seven-year period 1756-1763. It primarily involved conflicts between Great Britain and France, and also Prussia against Austria, though a number of other nations were also involved.

In 1756 Prussia established an alliance with Britain while France and Austria formed an alliance with the Treaty of Versailles. The Anglo-Prussian alliance was joined by smaller German states and later Portugal. The Austro-French alliance included Sweden, Saxony and later Spain. The war ended with the Treaty of Paris among France, Spain and Great Britain and the Treaty of Hubertusburg among Saxony, Austria and Prussia, in 1763.

Other commemorative items recorded on this database include cufflinks (LON-0548E7 and LON-9386EB), medallions (SF-2B2EC8) and knives (YORYM-38524E and SOM-D4FCEA) which demonstrate how widespread the popular celebration of his successes and this alliance.

KENT-3D1431 is an example of a similar fob seal to this and IOW-6C4735 may, in the light of this example, also commemorate this alliance.