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SEAL MATRIX
Unique ID: SF-24F34B
Object type certainty: Certain
Workflow
status: Awaiting validation 
An incomplete lead medieval oval- (or 'vesica-') shaped seal matrix. The reverse is flat and undecorated with a raised rib running longitudinally down the centre from which a small circular pierced suspension lug projects to one end, now bent out of shape. The outer face or die has an engraved eight-pointed star formed from four crossed lines in the centre surrounded by an unclear inscription, possibly including the letters: '[...]ARFERI'. The central design and description or divided from one another by a solid inner circle. The matrix is distorted with both sides being bent towards the rear, further obscuring the legend.
The pointed oval became a common style of matrix during the 13th century, especially for women (Harvey & McGuiness 1996, 80). During this period legends were also usually personalised like this example with anonymous inscriptions becoming more common during the following century (ibid. 87-8).
Length: 34.65mm, width: 21.94mm, thickness: 8.9mm, weight: 11.6g
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: 34.65 mm
Width: 21.94 mm
Thickness: 8.9 mm
Weight: 11.6 g
Discovery dates
Date(s) of discovery: Friday 1st November 2019
Personal details
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Materials and construction
Primary material: Lead
Manufacture method: Cast
Completeness: Complete
References cited
No references cited so far.
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Timeline of associated dates
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