Seal impression (cast), of W. Matthew, monk

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This is a 19th century sulphur cast of a seal impression. The impression was made from the seal of W. Matthew, monk of Arbroath Abbey in Angus, dating from the 13th century.

The seal depicts St Thomas à Beckett between two kneeling angels. Below, a monk prays to the saint. The inscription 'S.F.W. MATH'I. MONAC'. DABIRBROTHOT' identifies the monk and abbey. The gold border is modern cardboard trim.

Seals were used extensively from the 12th century in Scotland by kings, clergy, nobles and towns. In a society where few people could read or write, they provided evidence that documents were authentic.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-180-001-804-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.1999.1317
• Date: Date of cast: 19th century; Date of seal: 13th century
  
• Material: Sulphur; brown. Inscription: S.F.W. MATH'I . MONAC' . DABIRBROTHOT
  Seal / cast
  
• Dimensions: 34 mm L x 27 mm W
  
• What: Seal / cast
  
• Subject:
• Who: St Thomas
  W. Matthew
  
• Where: Scotland, Angus, Arbroath
  
• Event:
• Description: Brown sulphur cast of the seal of W. Matthew, a monk of Arbroath, depicting St Thomas, 13th century
  
• References:
  • Stevenson and Wood, i, p. 169, no 5 
  • Stevenson, J.H. and Wood, M. Scottish Heraldic Seals - Royal, Official, Ecclesiastical, Collegiate, Burghal, Personal, vol i. Glasgow, 1940, p 169, no 5. 
• Translations:
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