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Personal seals in wax from the Middle Ages
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Personal seals in wax from the Middle Ages
Various personal seals from the time of King Richard II, Henry IV, Henry V, Henry VI and Edward IV. Handcoloured etching drawn and etched by Thomas Fisher from his Paintings on the Walls of the Chapel of the Trinity, Stratford upon Avon, 1808
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Media ID 23197958
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Allegory Avon Chapel Emblem Etching Fisher Initial Legend Paintings Personal Seal Stratford Trinity Walls Myth
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This print showcases a collection of personal seals from the Middle Ages, featuring the insignia of five successive English monarchs: King Richard II, Henry IV, Henry V, Henry VI, and Edward IV. Each seal is rendered in intricate detail through the art of handcoloured etching, meticulously drawn and etched by Thomas Fisher from his Paintings on the Walls of the Chapel of the Trinity in Stratford upon Avon in 1808. The seals, made of wax, served as a unique identifier for their owners during a time when literacy rates were low. Each seal bore the monarch's initials or emblem, often accompanied by an allegorical image or legend, symbolizing their power and authority. These seals were affixed to documents and letters, ensuring authenticity and preventing forgery. King Richard II's seal displays a griffin, a mythical creature with the body, tail, and back legs of a lion; the head and wings of an eagle. This powerful symbol represented the monarch's dominion over both the animal kingdom and the heavens. Henry IV's seal features a crowned lion holding a shield, symbolizing his strength and courage. The legend "Henricus Rex" (Henry the King) is inscribed below. Henry V's seal displays the arms of England and France, reflecting his claim to both thrones. The legend "Henricus Quintus Dei Gratia Rex Anglorum et Francorum" (Henry the Fifth, by the Grace of God, King of England and France) is inscribed. Henry VI's seal features a rose and a sun in splendour, symbolizing the House of Lancaster. The legend "Henricus Sextus Dei Gratia Rex Anglorum" (Henry the Sixth, by the Grace of God, King of England) is inscribed. Edward IV's seal displays a white boar, the emblem of the House of York. The legend "Edwardus Quartus Dei Gratia Rex Anglorum" (Edward the Fourth, by the Grace of God, King of England) is inscribed. This enchanting print offers a glimpse into the rich history and mythology of the Middle Ages, providing a tangible connection to a time long past.
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