Record

Seal impression (cast), of James I

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Postcard of Seal impression (cast), of James I.
000-180-001-790-C
© National Museums Scotland

Seal impression (cast), of James I

This is a 19th century sulphur cast of a seal impression. The impression was made from the obverse of the 2nd Great Seal of James I, dating from around 1424.

The seal depicts the king on his throne. The seal matrix producing this seal was used by the next four monarchs (all named James), with each adding small additions to distinguish it from the last. The fragmentary inscription 'IACOBVS DEI G...CIA REX ...TORVM' translates as James by the grace of God, king of the Scots.' 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. Great Seals were used primarily for grants of land.


Record details

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Online ID: 000-180-001-790-C
Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
Project: 0504: National Museums Scotland Part 2
Project description | View all records in project
Ref: National Museums Scotland  K.1999.757
Date: c. 1424
Date of cast: 19th century; Date of seal: Around 1424
Material: Sulphur; brown; circular. Inscription: IACOBVS DEI G...CAI REX ...TORVM
Dimensions: 107 mm D
What: Seal / cast
Subject:
Who: James I of Scotland
Young Collection
Where:
Event:
Description: Brown sulphur cast of the obverse of the 2nd Great Seal of James I of Scotland, depicting the king on his throne, c. 1424
References:
  • Stevenson and Wood, i, p.11 no.43 
  • Stevenson, J.H. and Wood, M. Scottish Heraldic Seals - Royal, Official, Ecclesiastical, Collegiate, Burghal, Personal, vol i. Glasgow, 1940, p 11, no. 43. 
Translations:
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