Medieval Bronze Exceptional Rectangular Seal Matrix –...

Small treasures bearing the traces of history Exceptional Medieval Rectangular Seal Matrix – Sigillum – Jerusalem Symbolism and a Cross-Patterned Face – A Distinctive Collector’s Piece Description With its rectangular sealing face, elongated handle and transverse perforation, this seal matrix possesses a striking historical character on a small scale. Considered within a broad dating framework of approximately the 12th–15th centuries AD, it belongs to the medieval sealing tradition expressed by the Latin term sigillum. A seal impression conveyed its owner’s identity, intention and approval; a small engraved surface could represent an individual’s presence on a document. Made from a metal alloy, probably bronze, the matrix bears a cross-shaped geometric design that invites interpretation within Christian symbolism. In this cultural setting, Jerusalem held profound significance as a destination of pilgrimage and the centre of sacred places associated with the life of Christ. This connection provides a meaningful historical perspective for considering the motif and the devotional world surrounding medieval sealing practices. The British Museum’s medieval seal matrices and catalogues offer comparative context for the meeting of personal identity and religious imagery in sealing instruments. The perforated handle accommodates suspension by a cord. Its preserved structure, wear-softened incisions and brown-green patinated surface bring form, function and symbolic interest together for the collector. Object Type: Handled Seal Matrix / Sigillum Period: Medieval Date Range: Approximately ca.12th–15th Century AD Material: Metal Alloy, Probably Bronze Technique: Casting and Engraving of the Sealing Face Form: Rectangular Sealing Face, Elongated Handle and Transverse Perforation Symbolism: Cross-shaped Geometric Design, Considered within Christian Symbolism and the Sacred Significance of Jerusalem Condition: Preserved Matrix and Handle; Brown-green Patinated Surface with Wear to the Engraved Lines Length: 26.23 mm ± Width: 15.23 mm ± Weight: 8.41 g ± Note ★ Please consult the measurements to appreciate the piece’s actual size. Photographic framing can make objects of different dimensions appear similar in size. Buyers wishing to receive a printed Cultural and Iconographic Assessment Certificate may submit their request before shipment. Every shipment is dispatched with full insurance coverage. Differences in shipping charges for certain countries reflect the country-specific costs of this insured service. Warm, museum-inspired lighting was chosen to bring out the object’s surface texture, form, craftsmanship and historic character naturally. Suspension cords and other display accessories visible in the photographs complement the presentation and are not included in the sale. Information Surface details have been documented using high-resolution equipment. The object’s form and structural integrity have been preserved, with photographic adjustments limited to minor colour balancing. Museum-standard technical photographs may be supplied to interested collectors during the auction. If requested before shipment, an expert assessment report and a signed ownership document prepared in the buyer’s name can be provided in PDF format within 3–5 business days. When identifying an archaeological object, experienced museum specialists and archaeologists consider its known find context, material, form and symbols alongside museum examples and academic research; appropriate advanced laboratory examinations can provide additional scientific insight into specific questions concerning material, manufacture and dating. The stated period, original function, symbolic meaning and material reflect academic assessments supported by typological comparisons and expert opinions. Advanced scientific analyses are separate examinations conducted beyond the scope of the sale. Scholarly consistency, transparent communication and good faith guide every presentation; no object is knowingly offered as a copy or imitation.

Estimate:$168.06

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