Medieval seal matrix with a Roman gem

The seal matrix belonged to a medieval gentleman called Walter. The red jasper gem was carved in the Roman period.A seal matrix was used to make a mark in hot wax to seal letters and documents. This seal matrix was found by a metal detectorist on the Isle of Wight in 2006. The find was reported to the Finds Liaison Officer and it was later declared as treasure. The seal matrix is over 700 years old, dating from the Medieval period. The matrix belonged to 'Walter of Longdown' who would probably have worn it around his neck. The outside of the seal is made from silver whilst the gem is a piece of carved red jasper, engraved in the Roman period around the first century AD. The intaglio shows the Goddess Victory standing on a globe. Victory was a Roman goddess who would crown the victorious with a wreath made from leaves. The goddess Victory was very popular with the Roman army. Walter of Longdown may have been aware of the Roman meaning of the engraving. However he may have re-interpreted the figure as an angel and the stars as the heavens.

The seal matrix belonged to a medieval gentleman called Walter. The red jasper gem was carved in the Roman period.