Medieval bronze Vesica-shaped Seal Matrix of the dean of Ardi

Legend: SIGILLVM ARDI DECANI
At the centre is a frontal depiction of a cleric, standing and dressed in long, folded robes, holding a book or cloth gathered in his hands. The figure shows a tonsure, characteristic of a chapter or monastic cleric. Around the edge runs a Latin inscription in Gothic lettering: SIGILLVM ARDI DECANI, which translates as “Seal of the Dean of Arcy/Ardi.” The matrix functioned as the official seal of the decanus, the ecclesiastical official heading the chapter or clerical community associated with the locality of Arcy/Ardi in northern France.

Material: Bronze
Date: Medieval, 13th-14th century AD
Measurement: overall: 48 x 35 mm
Condition: Extremely fine condition

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