Seal matrix, of the Burgh of Canongate, now part of Edinburgh

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This is the seal matrix of the Burgh of Canongate, now part of Edinburgh. It dates from the 16th century and is made of copper.

The matrix depicts a stag with a cross between his antlers. There is a church on the stag's right and a hole pierced on its left. The Latin inscription translates as: 'The Seal of the Burgh of Canongate of Holyrood Abbey'.

The imagery on the matrix refers to the foundation legend of Holyrood Abbey, which relates that a cross came into David I's hands when he was wounded by a stag. On that night, David was advised in a dream to build an abbey on the site of the incident.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-002-645-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  H.NM 28
• Date: 16th century
  
• Material: Copper. Inscription: S. BURGI VICI CANONICORVM MONASTERII SANCTE CRVCIS
  Seal matrix / impression
  
• Dimensions: 46 mm D
  
• What: Seal matrix / impression
  
• Subject: Jewellery: seals, stamps (NMAS Classification)
  
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, Midlothian, Edinburgh (Canongate)
  
• Event:
• Description: Copper matrix and impression of the seal of the Burgh of Canongate, Edinburgh, 16th century
  
• References:
• Translations:
• Related Records: