Rear of seal matrix with fleur de lis design and loop for hanging on a cord
It is very rare to find a medieval seal matrix which records not only a named individual, but also one that is a woman.
This complete gilded silver seal matrix dating from 1200 to1350 was found in Dodford. It would have belonged to a woman of aristocratic standing or an important ecclesiastic woman.
A seal matrix is used for making an impression in wax to authenticate a document or to keep it closed and would only have been used by someone important. The face is finely decorated with a central motif composed of two male figures, facing each other with a central staff or sceptre. The inscription around the outer edge of the seal matrix reads *SIGILLVM:AMABILI‹ which translates as ‘the Seal of Amabile’ or ‘Amabilis’, a woman’s name. Although there is no last name it has been suggested that it could have belonged to Amabel de Chacombe, Lady Segrave, (1210-1283). She was closely associated with the village of Chacombe, about 15 miles from the findspot. Amabel de Chacombe was a woman of high-status, as her father founded the Priory at Chacombe.
Number 40 of the objects selected for the A History of Northamptonshire in 100 Objects exhibition 2025.
© NMAG
© NMAG
©
NMAG
©
NMAG
©
NMAG