Silver seal matrix to go on show

A rare silver seal matrix unearthed by someone using a metal detector has been found a permanent home at Hereford Museum where it will be on display to the public.

The beautifully carved artefact, which dates to the late 15th or early 16th century, would have been used as an official seal on documents and was found by a farmer on their own land in Much Dewchurch back in 2001.

It is likely the seal was once owned by an individual of some significance, as shown by parts of the carved motif which shows a shield with fleur-de-lis and a five bar label, flanked by dragons, and topped with oak leaves.

The identity of the particular individual or family has mystified experts from the College of Arms in London, but it is likely they were local to the Welsh Marches, and may even have lived near to where the matrix was found at Much Dewchurch.

When the item was shown to the Portable Antiquities Finds Liaison Officer in 2004, it was thought it would be classed as treasure trove. It then went through the official process and was said by the Treasure Valuation Committee to be “of high quality workmanship and in excellent condition”.

Only three other seal matrices of around this date, all made of copper alloy, are held in the museum’s collections and this is the only known silver matrix from the county. 

The seal matrix will be on display in the museum from Monday, October 30.

Cllr Roy Stockton, Herefordshire Council’s Cabinet Member (Community Services), said: “I hope residents will take the chance to see this rare artefact which is very much part of the county’s history. It would also be nice if someone can shed further light on the matrix seal’s history.”

The artefact was purchased with funds from the Museum Libraries and Archives / Victoria & Albert Purchase Grant Fund, The Headley Trust and Friends of Herefordshire Museums and Arts.