RecordSeal impression (cast)of Inchaffray Abbey, Perthshire
Seal impression (cast)This is a 19th century sulphur cast of a seal impression. The impression was made from the obverse of the 2nd seal of Inchaffray Abbey in Perthshire, dating from the 14th century. The seal depicts an eagle, the symbol of St John, with spread wings within a carved panel. It holds a scroll in its mouth which bears the first line of the Gospel ('In the beginning was the word'). The inscription identifies the abbey, which was built on an artificial island. The gold border is modern cardboard trim. Seals are evidence of the paperwork involved in running a complex organisation. They were signs of the medieval Church's huge authority, combining the functions of signature and logo to show that documents were genuine. Record detailsTo search on related items, click any linked text below.
|
|