Copper Alloy Ecclesiastical Seal Matrix
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Item: Seal Matrix
Make: Great Britain
Age: Unknown (Possibly Medieval or Post-medieval)
Construction: Cast Copper Alloy, Lead
Dimensions: 3 1/4" Long x 2 1/8" Wide x 5.2mm Thick
Condition: Good. Please see photos.
Details: Pointed oval incised or impressed with a low-relief image in the center of five figures superimposed over the depiction of a Gothic cathedral or college building. At least one of the three central figures appears to be female, and the figure at the top resembles the Madonna with the Christ child on her knee. A Latin inscription follows the outer edge, probably identifying the religious organization. The face of the matrix is an aged copper color with brighter metal at some points. The reverse appears to be roughly finished lead.
These seal matrices were used in the Middle Ages and later to impress sealing wax on letters, documents and packages. They were used by a variety of social levels, such as religious organizations, royal or noble households, farmers, and often women, to authenticate business documents and correspondence, or just to seal a document or package closed. Each matrix was unique, identifying its user, much like a signature. They came in various shapes and sizes, by everyone from goldsmiths to tinsmiths, and were manufactured by engraving. The term 'matrix' is derived from the Latin word 'mater', or mother, as the matrix would produce many seals during its use.