Seal Matrix, of the Burgh of Portsburgh, now part of Edinburgh

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This is the seal matrix of the Burgh of Portsburgh, now part of Edinburgh. It dates from around 1650 and is made of silver.

The circular matrix depicts a three-towered castle on a rock. The Latin inscription translates as: 'Seal of the Burgh of Edinburgh for its Barony of Portsburgh'. The matrix has a suspension loop.

As centres of local government, burghs had their own seals which were used on documents to represent identity, authority and status. Like coats-of-arms, the images on them illustrate aspects of the burghs' origins and activities.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-002-687-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  H.NM 145
• Date: Around 1650
  
• Material: Silver. Inscription: SIGILLVM BURGI DE EDIBVRGH BARONIE SVE DE PORTSBVRGH; { } Edinburgh
  Seal matrix / cast
  
• Dimensions: 57 mm D
  
• What: Seal matrix / cast
  
• Subject: Jewellery: seals, stamps (NMAS Classification)
  
• Who:
• Where: Portsburgh
  Scotland, Midlothian, Edinburgh
  Scotland, Midlothian, Edinburgh
  
• Event:
• Description: Silver cast of the seal matrix of the Burgh of Portsburgh, now Edinburgh
  
• References:
• Translations:
• Related Records: