Large Medieval 'Eagle' Seal Matrix
Copper-alloy, 20.81 grams, 23.52 mm diameter, 29.81 mm tall. Seal matrix, circa 14th century AD. Of typical 'chessman' form, having a circular die surface with a hexagonal shaft, rising to a triple collar and slightly trefoil-shaped integral suspension loop. The design of the seal shows a large bird, probably an eagle, with spread wings and feet with four groups each of four pellets in the field. The inscription reads *F.RASOE LIOC IESO. This is an illiterate rendering of a latin phrase of uncertain meaning. The word IESO is most probably a corruption of IESU for Jesus. Reference: Collecting Seals by Bryon Pateman, page 103, etc, for similar examples. A larger than usual circular seal matrix in an excellent state of preservation with all of the details providing a clear impresssion.