[MR] Gold Seal Matrix From Norfolk

[Garth Groff and Sally Sanford]

Noble Friends,

The recent discovery of a gold seal matrix in Norfolk, England, by a metal
detectorist has been on several news sites. The piece is both stunning and
highly unusual.

Firstly, it is only the third gold seal matrix to be found in Britain.
Added to that, its centerpiece is a carnelian or agate stone carved with an
elephant bearing a war "castle" on its back. While elephants were not
unknown to medieval Europe (think Hannibal and his elephants pooping all
over the Alps), few Europeans except for a few traders or crusaders had
ever seen a real elephant.

The seal matrix is expected to be declared treasure at the end of the
month, and at least one museum in Britain has already offered to buy the
piece.

A very nice illustrated article is found on the History Blog at
http://www.thehistoryblog.com/archives/61111 .

Another article with side and rear views of the matrix was featured on the
BBC at https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-norfolk-56601940

Yours Aye,


Lord Mungo Napier, Laird of Mallard Lodge  🦆