Code: 12804
This is a nice English medieval bronze armorial seal, dating to the 13th-14th century. The design is deeply cut, giving a crisp impression with a heater shield emblazoned on a swan. The owner of the seal is named in Lombardic lettering (reading as) "S'IACOBI DE CICERON DVS "The seal of James, lord of Ciceron" Device : a swan, wings outstretched, head inclined to left. On its chest a shield of arms, bearing a lion rampant, on a fess three birds (martlets?). Bird's webbed feet are visible below the shield. Device is separated from legend by a beaded line.
This seal was found in England, near Norton, Daventry, Northants IHS-DFAD91 & NARC-2608F4. This seal has been investigated by Dr. I.H.Syzmanski and comes with research. The swan on this seal is very well cut and reminds me of the Dunstable Swan (found 40 miles from this seal). It is intact and is a nice seal worthy of further research, possibly from one of the knights or courtiers of king Richard II since the swan was used as his livery and personal emblem.
OBJECT: Seal Matrix
CULTURE: Medieval
DATE: c. 1280 - 1380 AD
MATERIAL: Bronze
SIZE: 24mm x 8mm
WEIGHT: 9 grams
PROVENANCE: Found in Norton, Daventry. England. NARC-2608F4
