Richard II Medieval Seal Matrix. Circa AD 1377-1399. Copper-...

Hammer

£460

Richard II Medieval Seal Matrix. Circa AD 1377-1399. Copper-alloy, 29.12 grams. 32.10 mm x 10.37 mm. A large chess-piece type matrix with a trefoil-shaped suspension loop and large round seal face. The seal displays a crowned bust between the letters, S R. Recorded on the PAS database: KENT-AD9801.
The matrix seems to fit with the usual fairly high status copper-alloy pedestal matrices of the 13th and 14th centuries, discussed by Harvey & McGuiness (1996, 77-93). That being said it lacks the usual retrograde inscription and demarcation line. the flanking lettering is something more common on merchants seals of the late 14th or 15th centuries, where initials flank the merchants symbol. That being said the matrix is quite large for one of these and the inclusion of a king's bust might suggest the initials stand for Sigilivm Rex (seal of the King) or Sigilivm Ricardvs (Seal of Richard). This might indicate a connection with Richard II (1377-1399) king at the end of the 14th century. A counter seal or clerks seal for a minor deputed seal such as those for customs or for recognition of debts, which names Richard II has been reported to the PAS (ESS-312836). It is therefore tentatively suggested that this matrix dates from the late 14th century and may, like ESS-312836 be counter-seal or clerks seal in the name of Richard II.