IHS-909705: Seal Matrix: Naturalistic Iris

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SEAL MATRIX

Unique ID: IHS-909705

Object type certainty: Certain
Workflow status: Awaiting validation

A lead alloy vesica-shaped (pointed oval) seal matrix. Back has intact suspension loop at top of raised midrib; either side of the midrib three curling scrolls. Device of a fine-petalled lily flower on a stem above four of its leaves, most likely intended to represent something akin to the wild flag iris. Device separated from legend by a neat line; a similar line marks the outer edge of the matrix. Measurements: 21 mm x 34 mm; weight 13.8 g.

Notes:

Device displays the fleur-de-lys or lily flower rising from its leaves; the original engraver drew the flower from nature rather than in its more common stylized form. The lettering is very competent and clear, it also fills its space well. This means that, rather than splitting a word at the bottom point of the matrix, as some poorer matrices do it allows the natural break between "WALTER'" and "FIL'" to fall there. Unfortunately, it is not possible to identify the owner of this matrix; not only is the find place too vague, but the fact that the matrix was found on outskirts of a city means that it could have been dropped by individuals from a good distance away who had travelled to Lincoln on business. Walter and Nicholas/Nichola (there is no way of knowing which is meant from the matrix) were common names in the mediaeval period.

Inscription: +S[IGILLUM]' WALTER' FIL' NICHOL' (The Seal of Walter, son of Nicholas/Nichola).

Subsequent actions

Current location of find: Returned to finder
Subsequent action after recording: Returned to finder

Chronology

Broad period: MEDIEVAL
Period from: MEDIEVAL
Date from: AD 1200
Date to: AD 1300

Dimensions and weight

Quantity: 1
Length: 34 mm
Width: 21 mm
Weight: 13.8 g

Discovery dates

Date(s) of discovery: Friday 1st February 2002

Personal details

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Other reference numbers

Other reference: Originally York Sealmat 139

Materials and construction

Primary material: Lead Alloy
Manufacture method: Cast

Spatial metadata

Region: East Midlands (European Region)
County or Unitary authority: Lincolnshire (County)
District: Lincoln (District)

References cited

No references cited so far.

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Timeline of associated dates

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Audit data

Recording Institution: IHS
Created: 18 years ago
Updated: 13 years ago

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