Seal impression (cast)

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This is a 19th century sulphur cast of a seal impression. The impression was made from the reverse of the 2nd seal of Dunfermline Abbey in Fife, dating from the 13th century.

The seal depicts four angels supporting the Saviour who is seated in judgment, portrayed in a design rich with symbolism. The gold border is modern cardboard trim.

Seals are evidence of the paperwork involved in running a complex organisation. They were signs of the medieval Church's huge authority, combining the functions of signature and logo to show that documents were genuine.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-180-001-753-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland Part 2
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  K.1999.1340
• Date: Date of cast: 19th century; Date of seal: 13th century
  
• Material: Sulphur; brown. Inscription: ...... ITE VE .......
  Seal / cast
  
• Dimensions: 77 mm D
  
• What: Seal / cast
  
• Subject:
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, Fife, Dunfermline
  
• Event:
• Description: Brown sulphur cast of the reverse of the 2nd seal of Dunfermline Abbey, depicting four angels supporting the Saviour, 13th century
  
• References:
  • Stevenson and Wood, i, p. 178, no 75 
  • Stevenson, J.H. and Wood, M. Scottish Heraldic Seals - Royal, Official, Ecclesiastical, Collegiate, Burghal, Personal, vol i. Glasgow, 1940, p 178, no 75. 
• Translations:
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