Sapphire gem in medieval seal matrix: Female bust

PP-ID:

PP-5883

Classification:

ring; seal matrix; all stone and glass amulets; gem, non-specified; all jewellery

Collection ID:

UK_London, V&A_89-1899

Collection:

London, Victoria and Albert Museum

Collection Inventory:

89-1899

Material:

gold; sapphire

Dimensions:

ring bezel: 25 × 24 mm; hoop diameter: 21 mm

Date:

ring: 1200–1300 AD; gem: 1st century BC

Iconography:

bust; veil; female figure

Provenience:

Hereford, Herefordshire

Seal matrix
Gold signet ring with an oval bezel, set with an intaglio, which is surrounded by an inscription. The back of the bezel is open, allowing the gemstone’s reverse to show. Complete and well preserved.
Seal legend: *TECTA:LEGE:LECTA:TEGE: → Tecta lege lecta tege. 'Read what is written, hide what is read'.

Gem
Upright oval sapphire intaglio. Bust of a veiled woman in profile, facing left. Complete; chipped edges.

Selected bibliography
• Henig 2008 >>, 29.

Further resources on PP-5883
• Victoria and Albert Museum Collection

Last modified:

2025.10.22 15:59:41

Permalink:

https://phoinixplatform.org/object/5883

Cite this page