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Unique ID: SF-8A1DBD
Object type certainty: Certain
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status: Awaiting validation
An incomplete lead Medieval Papal bulla of Pope Alexander IV, dating to AD 1254-1261. It is semi-circular in plan and sub rectangular in cross-section. Only half of the bulla survives; originally the obverse had two bearded heads individually surrounded by a circle of pellets, and a cross between them. What remains of the bulla depicts one head and the cross. The legend above the heads reads S PA [S PE]. The reverse has the legend in three lines and reads [AL]E/[XAN]DER/P P . I]III. The legend is inscribed in a beaded line.
Diameter: 38.28 mm
Thickness: 3.86 mm
Weight: 19.93 g
Notes:
Papal bullae are formal seals of office used by the Popes to stamp and authenticate documents produced by the papal curia (administration). Dr Tim Pestell (Curator of Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery) comments in reference to these finds: "Papal bulls came as two basic types, according to the contents of the document: Tituli, or "Letters of Grace", essentially granted or confirmed rights, conferred benefices or promulgated statutes. They generally had their lead bullae attached with cords of silk. Mandamenta, or "Letters of Justice" were mandates that conveyed papal orders, prohibitions or injunctions, and had their bullae attached by hemp threads".
Subsequent action after recording: Returned to finder
Broad period: MEDIEVAL
Period from: MEDIEVAL
Period to: MEDIEVAL
Date from: Circa AD 1254
Date to: Circa AD 1261
Quantity: 1
Thickness: 3.86 mm
Weight: 19.93 g
Diameter: 38.28 mm
Date(s) of discovery: Thursday 17th January 2019
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Primary material: Lead
Manufacture method: Cast
Completeness: Incomplete
No references cited so far.