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SEAL MATRIX
Unique ID: KENT-381418
Object type certainty: Certain
Workflow
status: Awaiting validation 
A cast and engraved incomplete Medieval lead pointed oval seal matrix. c.1200-1350
Description: The matrix is pointed oval in plan. The front of the matrix is a engraved with a uprighlight linear with pairs of upwards diagonal line emanating along its length, possibly representing a tree, leaf, fish or more esoteric image. This is surrounded by a plain line border mirroring the overall shape of the matrix. Around this is the very crude inscription which appears to read "+S':GILEB.(F?)' RICER LOND". This might translate as the seal of Gilbert son of Richard London, but the middle of the matrix is unclear. The reverse of the matrix features a D shaped suspension lug. The suspension lug is incomplete. The seal matrix is a dark off white colour with grey through some of the patination.
Measurements: 29.58mm long, 17.58mm wide, 5.43mm thick (with suspension loop, 2.43) and 6.57g in weight.
Class:
personal
Sub class: man
Inscription:
+S’:GILEB.(F?)’ RICER LOND
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 1350
Dimensions and weight
Quantity: 1
Length: 29.58 mm
Width: 17.58 mm
Thickness: 5.43 mm
Weight: 6.57 g
Personal details
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Materials and construction
Primary material: Lead
Completeness: Incomplete
Surface Treatment: Incised or engraved or chased
Spatial metadata
Region: South East (European Region)County or Unitary authority: Kent (County)
District: Gravesham (District)
Parish or ward: Istead Rise (District Ward)
Spatial coordinates
4 Figure: TQ6270
Four figure Latitude: 51.40589178
Four figure longitude: 0.32775632
1:25K map: TQ6270
1:10K map: TQ67SW
Grid reference source: Generated from computer mapping software
Unmasked grid reference accurate to a 10 metre square.
References cited
| Author | Publication Year | Title | Publication Place | Publisher | Pages | Reference | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvey, P.D.A. and McGuinness, A. | 1996 | A Guide to British Medieval Seals | London | British Library and Public Record Office |
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Timeline of associated dates
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