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

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:	0098: 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
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:

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