Medieval Ecclesiastical Bronze Seal Matrix

$503.13

A beautiful example of a medieval ecclesiastical seal matrix made from bronze. It features an intaglio design of a lamb bearing a cross, and has a strap and loop to the reverse. The border bears the Lombardic script legend – “GREGORI SACERDOTIS”, possibly referring to the original owner of the seal matrix, who could be identified as a member of the Church.

Date: Circa 14th Century AD
Condition: Very fine with some signs of ageing and green patina on the surface.

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During the medieval period, seals were widely used in trading to ensure the authenticity and security of a document or letter. Bronze seals were a possession of the wealthy, since they cost more to produce than lead seals, and had a longer life span on account of the metal’s hardness. The social status of the owner was reflected in the size of the seal, with the combination of motif and text providing further insight into the owner’s identity, such as their place in a family.

Seal matrices were originally made of ivory or jet, but lead, bronze, and silver were the most popular choice of material from the 12th and 13th centuries onwards. They are usually circular, vesica shaped, or shield shaped, with a loop at the back.

The seal’s intaglio depicts a lamb bearing a cross. This representation can be connected with the iconography of ‘Agnus Dei‘ – an evangelical expression in Latin, which means “Lamb of God”. This refers to Jesus Christ in his role as a sacrificial victim, who died for the redemption of the sins of humanity.

To find out more about seals, please visit our relevant blog post: Seal Rings – Intaglios as Signature

Weight 11 g
Dimensions L 3.7 cm
Culture

Metal

Christian Ideology

Region