{"title":"Silver Seals","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"silver-carnelian-desk-wax-seal-figurine-whippet-dog","title":"ANTIQUE PARCEL-GILT SILVER \u0026 CARNELIAN DESK WAX SEAL FIGURINE","description":"\u003cp\u003eA cast silver figurine of a whippet seated on a carnelian handle with gold mount and silver matrix.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSeal Detail\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a beautiful example of a small, lady's personal desk seal, dating to circa 1850 made of parcel-gilt silver and carnelian.  At the top is a cast and chased silver figure of a whippet or French greyhound with one uplifted paw, above a gilt rope twist border, faceted inverted baluster shaft in dark carnelian, the collar and cushion with bands of scrolled foliage, the square matrix engraved: \u003cem\u003eIDA\u003c\/em\u003e below a Continental Countess's coronet.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSeal Specification\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight 55mm (2.16\")\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiameter of matrix 9mm (0.35\")\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeight 13g (0.45oz)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sigillum Seals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44929391264029,"sku":"0497","price":575.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/3626\/9597\/products\/IMG_1432.jpg?v=1683817644"},{"product_id":"antique-silver-and-brass-wax-seal-albany-water-works","title":"ANTIQUE C1802 SILVER AND BRASS WAX SEAL - ALBANY WATER WORKS","description":"\u003ch2 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSeal Detail\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOval with inverted sides, notched at the top as marker, the silver matrix, delicately engraved with a roccoco water fountain with three jets rising from dolphins and shells, within an inscription, milled border, the reverse incised below the marker with an eagle's head.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe inscription reads: \u003cem\u003eALBANY WATER WORKS\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to information supplied by Virginia B. Bowers, Historian of the City of Albany, it is most probable that this seal dates from around 1802, the date of the incorporation of the Albany Water Works Company.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore this date, the citizens of Albany either drew water from the river Hudson which flows nearby or from a number of public and private wells.  The water from both these sources was described by contemporaries as on the whole dirty but not unhealthy.  During the 1790's, the Corporation of Albany sought to improve the situation by proposing a water supply which did not rely on wells, without success.  Then in 1802, the Albany Water Works Co was incorporated with a capital of $40,000.  Work was almost immediately begun by laying mains in the principal streets, drawing water from the Maezlandt Kill.  This source rapidly became inadequate and further brooks and streams were tapped until in 1844, the capital of the company was doubled and the Albany Hydrant Company was incorporated.  Extensive surveys followed but no further action was taken until 1850 when legislation was passed to appoint five water commissioners to assume complete responsibility for establishing a good and adequate water supply for the city.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is probable this seal was made and engraved by a local craftsman since a number of competent silversmiths were working in Albany at the beginning of the 19th century.  It has been suggested that the seal might be the work of the brief partnership, from 25 August 1800 until 5 October 1805, between the clock and watchmaker Hehemiah B. Bassett, who is also known to have worked as an engraver, and the silversmith Joseph Warford.  Their mark was an eagle's head punch, similar to the eagle's head roughly incised on the back of this seal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIsaac Hutton (1766-1855), on the other hand, the \"father of Albany silversmiths\" was known for the quality of his engraving: an extant wax impression of a seal made for Union College indicates his ability as a seal-cutter and, from 1803, Hutton was a director of the Albany Waterworks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e(For those keen collectors and followers of Sigillum Seals, you may be interested to know that this seal registers as No. 1 in the collection!)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSeal Specification\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight: 12mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWidth of matrix: 31mmx41mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeight: 95g\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sigillum Seals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44929527283997,"sku":"0982","price":725.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/3626\/9597\/products\/PXL_20221108_095216830.MOTION.jpg?v=1683818553"},{"product_id":"a-silver-fob-seal-fully-hallmarked-with-secondary-silver-fob-seal-attached-by-chain","title":"ANTIQUE SILVER FOB WAX SEAL BY WARWICK WITH SECONDARY SILVER FOB SEAL","description":"\u003ch2 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSeal Detail\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe silver fob seal of navette form engraved with a cross and circumscription reading: \u003cem\u003eSigilla : soc : archit : apud : oxonienses\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Oxford Architectural Society was founded in 1839 as the \"Oxford Society for promoting the study of Gothic architecture\".  The official change of name took place in 1848 but had been used unofficially since 1844; the date of this seal, though, being a year later in 1845.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003eseal, well marked with full hallmarks for the maker\u003cem\u003e Warwick\u003c\/em\u003e, although it appears that this is Stephen Warwick but for TW, dated to 1845, so presumably Stephen Warwick's familial successor.  This example has a smaller, silver oval matrix seal attached by a silver chain which is engraved with stylised initials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSeal Specification\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHeight mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDiameter of matrix  mm \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWeight g \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sigillum Seals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44929544880413,"sku":"1310","price":485.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/3626\/9597\/products\/1310.jpg?v=1683818806"},{"product_id":"antique-silver-fob-wax-seal-stephen-warwick-london","title":"A SILVER FOB WAX SEAL BY STEPHEN WARWICK OF LONDON 1844","description":"\u003ch2 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSeal Detail\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn medieval taste, the openwork handle with three protuberances above the angled collar, faceted spreading cushion, the integral bavette-shaped matrix engraved with a cross flory within an inscription in gothic script: \u003cem\u003eSigilla : soc : archit : apud : oxoniensis\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Oxford Architectural Society was founded in 1839 as the \"Oxford Society for promoting the study of Gothic architecture\".  The official change of name took place in 1848 but had been used unofficially since 1844, the date of the seal.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSeal Specification\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHeight 35mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDiameter of matrix  26mm \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWeight 35g \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sigillum Seals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44929545044253,"sku":"0212","price":400.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/3626\/9597\/products\/212A.jpg?v=1683818815"},{"product_id":"bloodstone-silver-gilt-camel-desk-wax-seal","title":"19THC BLOODSTONE, SILVER GILT AND GEM DESK WAX SEAL","description":"\u003ch2 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAn unusual and elegant mid to late 19th century bloodstone and silver gilt personal desk wax seal, the matrix engraved with a crest of a camel's head, matching the silver gilt figurine of a camel's head on the handle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSeal Detail\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWhat an unusual and pleasing desk seal this is!  With a charming figure of a silver gilt camel's head atop a silver gilt ducal coronet lined with gem set ring, with heavily tapered and faceted bloodstone handle to a simple silver oval mount and bloodstone matrix, well engraved with a matching head and neck of a camel atop a ducal coronet.  The seal was created for a Richard Walton White (1783-1854), who began life on the Isle of Wight and moved to the mainland where he served as Justice of the Peace for Hampshire among his other official positions.  It is believed that the handle might have been derived originally from a parasol handle as was common practice at that time and that it may have originated in Austria.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSeal Specification\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHeight 80mm (3.14\")\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDiameter of matrix  10mmx12mm (0.39\"x0.47\")\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWeight 70g (2.47oz)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sigillum Seals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45506252538141,"sku":"0120","price":1735.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/3626\/9597\/files\/PXL_20230719_201613175.jpg?v=1689798011"},{"product_id":"antique-silver-hardstone-armorial-desk-wax-seal-fitzgerald","title":"THE JOHN FITZGERALD, KNIGHT OF GLIN ANTIQUE SILVER AND HARDSTONE DESK WAX SEAL","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA superb early 19th century weighty and substantial hardstone handle, cast silver collar and carnelian matrix with full complement of arms and motto, including those of John Fitzgerald, Knight of Glin (born 1791).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSeal Detail\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis is an impressive seal indeed, dating from the early 19th century and substantial in weight and size.  The handle is of hardstone with striations of colour ranging from pale browns to black streaks, faceted and of tapering squared form, to a silver band collar and a most impressive cast and deeply engraved pastoral scene around the whole base comprising a hunting scene with hound chasing wild boar with cherub-like figures in attendance on a background of deep-cut foliate and flora forms.  The base terminates in a rectangular carnelian with rounded corners, very well engraved with a full complement of arms comprising central quartered with twin crest above of wild boar standing on crown and the other of a hand raising aloft a laurel branch.  Below the armorial is a motto reading:\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSHANAT A BOO\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e[sometimes seen as SHANNET or SHANID - t\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ehe war-cry and motto of the Earls of Desmond and Knights of Glin\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e was \"Shanid Abu\" (or \"Shanid Aboo\"), meaning \"Shanid Forever\" in old Irish\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, since Shanid Castle was the first and oldest Desmond castle.]\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis is a particularly fine wax desk seal, made with a hunting scene designed specifically to replicate the boar and flora featuring in the crest of John Fitzgerald, Knight of Glin and owner of Glin Castle.  (The last image above shows the crest featuring on the ceiling of Glin Castle)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHeight 122mm (\")\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDiameter of matrix  19mmx24mm (\"x0.\")\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWeight 178g (oz)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sigillum Seals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45906021581085,"sku":"0963","price":2350.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/3626\/9597\/files\/IMG_2010.jpg?v=1691675597"},{"product_id":"early-20thc-silver-eagle-figurine-wax-seal-stamp","title":"EARLY 20THC GEORGE SCHEID SILVER EAGLE FIGURINE WAX SEAL STAMP","description":"\u003ch2 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eStamp Detail\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA stunning stamped silver early 20th century desk stamp by the maker George Adam Scheid, the handle cast beautifully with great detail in the form of an eagle with wings outstretched, head to one side and standing on a rocky outcrop ground.  The plain collar is stamped for silver and octagonal formed matrix engraved with the stylised initials \u003cem\u003eHH.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn superb condition and a firm favourite over the past 30 years at Sigillum Seals.....\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eStamp Specification\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHeight 65mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDiameter of matrix  20mm \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWeight 121g\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sigillum Seals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48352247611677,"sku":"31x","price":1650.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/3626\/9597\/files\/PXL-20240504_123245793.jpg?v=1714826488"},{"product_id":"1st-duke-wellington-18thc-english-hardstone-silver-desk-seal","title":"1ST DUKE WELLINGTON 18THC ENGLISH HARDSTONE SILVER DESK SEAL","description":"\u003ch1\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSeal Detail\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAn impressive English desk seal; the silver mount with floral engraved border, to a rounded rectangular hardstone matrix engraved with the portrait of the 1st Duke of Wellington Arthur Wellesley, signed Dutton.  Of particularly fine quality engraving, and presented now in excellent condition, save for the missing handle.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSeal Specification\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight 20mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiameter of matrix  24mmx27mm \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeight 19g \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sigillum Seals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55344975446394,"sku":"4750","price":709.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/3626\/9597\/files\/4750-1.jpg?v=1770913033"},{"product_id":"fine-19thc-irish-hardstone-silver-antique-wax-seal-freeman-original-case","title":"19THC IRISH HARDSTONE SILVER ANTIQUE WAX SEAL - FREEMAN + ORIGINAL CASE","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSeal Detail\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA fine 19th century Irish hardstone and silver antique wax desk seal, the handle of baluster form with rounded top made of a most impressive polished hardstone of mainly dark blue hues, tapering to a silver flared collar with rubbed silver marks to a circular integral matrix, well engraved with the arms for the family, Freeman, of county Cork, Ireland comprising shield, helm and crest, mantling and motto at base reading:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLIBER ET AUDAX (Free and Bold)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePresented in excellent condition along with its associated original calfskin and silk case and gold printed stamp for \"J MacMichael To the Queen\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSeal Specification\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight:  63mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiameter of matrix:  22mm \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeight:  69g\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sigillum Seals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56577987936634,"sku":null,"price":745.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/3626\/9597\/files\/rn-image_picker_lib_temp_8cfa03b7-2b92-4976-85fd-c04babc94463.jpg?v=1771591208"},{"product_id":"18thc-silver-wood-desk-seal-branch-from-oak-tree-charles-ii-escape","title":"17\/18THC SILVER \u0026 WOOD DOUBLE ENDED DESK SEAL - BRANCH FROM OAK TREE CHARLES II ESCAPE","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSeal Detail\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA superb example of a commemorative English late 17th or early 18th century desk seal, of silver and wood, the handle comprised of alternating sections of silver and oak wood, the silver collar engraved with the inscription:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThis is a Branch of the Oak in wh Charles 2d was Concealed\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe seal features matrices at each end, the larger circular one with a cypher within a lined border, the other engraved with the image of an oak tree with acorns. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe escape of Charles II from England in September 1651 is highly symbolic in English civil war history as the time when the monarch fled the city of Worcester for London and despite being disguised, was forced to hide within an oak tree to avoid capture (with a reward of £1000).  This oak tree stood within the grounds of Boscobel House, at which a descendant of that original oak tree still stands!    Charles eventually made his way to France and had to remain there until the death of Oliver Cromwell in 1658 allowed him to return and regain the monarchy.  As a footnote, in 1664, on the occasion of the KIng's birthday on 29th May, the day was designated Oak Apple Day, by an Act f Parliament and a special service was inserted in the Book of Common Prayer.  For over 200 years, the King's birthday was celebrated by the wearing of a sprig of oak leaves in remembrance of the tortuous events in 1651.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis rare seal on offer now is a superb commemorative piece of English history, in superb condition commensurate with its age.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSeal Specification\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight:  74mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiameter of matrix:  12mm \u0026amp; 15mm \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeight:  13g \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-wiz-uids=\"eN0Ode_h,eN0Ode_i\" class=\"uJ19be notranslate\"\u003e\u003cspan data-wiz-attrbind=\"class=eN0Ode_g\/TKHnVd\" data-animation-atomic=\"\" class=\"vKEkVd\"\u003e\u003cspan aria-hidden=\"true\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sigillum Seals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56586745217402,"sku":null,"price":885.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/3626\/9597\/files\/4868.jpg?v=1771070835"},{"product_id":"a-fine-early-19th-century-silver-gilt-desk-seal-english-circa-1820-unmarked","title":"THE SIR JONATHAN WATHEN WALLER SILVER GILT ENGLISH DESK SEAL C1820 OF GEORGE IV","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSeal Detail - as featured on p46 of our \"Matrix\" book\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe seal is cast as a bust of George IV with forward-swept locks, wearing uniform elaborately ornamented with gold lace, a laurel wreath on the collar, with the Sash and Star of the Order of the Garter and the chain of the Golden Fleece. The bust is on a bracketed support with angular bosses on a textured ground. The hexagonal white chalcedony matrix was later engraved with a crest, a coat of arms and a motto. In a later fitted rectangular black leather case, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ecirca\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 1845, with tooled border and green plush lining, and stamped for the retailer: Noah Groves\/ Goldsmith\/ Bradford (Note: split in the upper portion due to damage which requires fixing.)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe motto reads \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ehic fructus virtutis\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (‘This is the fruit of valour’). The arms are those of Waller as the Waller Baronetcy of Braywick Lodge, Berkshire. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe seal is believed to have been given to Sir Jonathan Wathen Waller (1769–1853), 1st Baronet, ophthalmic surgeon to George III and his family, later Groom of the Bedchamber to William IV.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Waller family are said to owe descent to Alured de Waller of Newark. Anne Waller, sole surviving heir of Thomas Waller of south Lambeth, married firstly John Allen, by whom she had an only child, Mary. Anne Allen married secondly Jonathan Wathen, an eye surgeon. Mary Allen married Joshua Phipps, an ironfounder in the East End of London, and left one son, Jonathan Wathen Phipps, who, as sole heir to his grandmother, assumed her arms and name in 1814 by sign-manual, being also created Baronet in December of that year. Sir Jonathan had followed his step-grandfather’s example, becoming an eye specialist with a particular reputation for cataracts. Ironically, he himself was to become blind as a result of two failed cataract operations before his death in 1853. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJonathan Wathen Phipps married firstly Elizabeth Slack in 1793 and had seven children, four of whom survived infancy. His two sons, Thomas, who succeeded as 2nd Baronet in 1853, and Ernest Adolphus, who entered holy orders, married two sisters in 1836 and 1835 respectively. Following Elizabeth’s death in 1809, Jonathan married secondly in 1812, as her second husband, Sophia Charlotte (1762–1835), daughter of Earl Howe, from whom she inherited the title of Baroness Howe of Langar. They lived at Twickenham on the site of Pope’s celebrated villa, which Baroness Howe had purchased in 1807. She had subsequently ordered the villa and grotto to be demolished since she was, it is said, inconvenienced by the frequent flow of curious visitors.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn 1796 Jonathan had been appointed oculist to the Royal Household. Several members of the royal family were his patients, with whom he was to maintain close ties. The Princesses Sophia and Mary, and their brothers the Dukes of Cumberland and Cambridge, stood sponsor at the christening of his second son, Ernest Adolphus, born 1808. Sir Jonathan was invested as a Knight of the Royal Hanoverian Guelphic Order (KH) in 1824, becoming KCH in 1827 and GCH in 1830 (this Order being in the gift of the King). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSir Jonathan’s papers, which include numerous affectionate letters from members of the royal family, are now in the Warwickshire County Record Office. Writing to his eldest son, Sir Jonathan gives a moving account of the death of George IV, at which he was present: ‘My beloved Friend \u0026amp; Monarch expired in my Arms at ¼ past 3 oClock on the Morning of Yesterday ... he as usual took my Hand in his \u0026amp; I felt him instantly press it harder than usual \u0026amp; he looked at me with an eager Eye \u0026amp; exclaimed, “My dear Boy this is Death.” These were the last Words he uttered ...’.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAn interesting group of precious objects given to Sir Jonathan by George IV and other members of the royal family, including a jewelled tortoiseshell snuff box given to him by the King on his coronation in 1821, was sold by the executors of his descendant, Sir Wathen Arthur Waller, in 1947. It is known, furthermore, that a group of seals modelled as busts of George IV were made for the royal family and their entourage (Duke of Sussex, ‘A gold seal, with a bust of George IV, on a column, with white cornelian foot’; Duke of Cambridge, ‘A pair of seals, the handles of silver-gilt, formed as pedestals, with busts of George IV’).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProvenance:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA descendant of the Waller family, according to whom the seal was presented to Sir Jonathan Wathen Waller following the death of George IV.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe arms do not bear the badge of a Baronet, and could therefore have been used by either of Sir Jonathan’s sons before 1853 (although the second son should have used a crescent for difference), but not by the Baronet himself.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cb id=\"docs-internal-guid-20dbe0f4-7fff-3fb1-eb5b-2c0217a5a1a6\"\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"MuiBox-root mui-1821gv5\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-heading3 mui-4qde0w\"\u003eProvenance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy family tradition presented to Sir Jonathan Wathen Waller on the death of King Geoge IV\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy descent \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMatrix a Collection of British Seals, David Morris, seal 14, pages 46 – 47\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSeal Specification\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight: 65 mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiameter of matrix: 19mm x 17mm \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeight:  72g \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sigillum Seals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56603855454586,"sku":null,"price":1550.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/3626\/9597\/files\/207A.jpg?v=1771785898"},{"product_id":"the-joshua-toulmin-smith-desk-seal-1816-1869-a-19th-century-silver-desk-seal","title":"THE JOSHUA TOULMIN SMITH DESK SEAL (1816-1869) A 19TH CENTURY SILVER DESK SEAL","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSeal Detail\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe domed handle with profuse scroll chased decoration throughout, to an integral matrix, of circular outline, engraved with the crest and motto for the Toulmin Smith family.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJoshua Toulmin Smith\u003c\/strong\u003e (1816- 1869)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA British political theorist and lawyer, from Birmingham. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe cholera epidemic of 1847 encouraged Smith to demand better sanitation. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA small French poincon mark is stamped on the matrix reverse. The seal is presented in excellent condition save for a hairline mark around part of the handle, as can be seen in the photos.  It is not understood why this is present and it does not affect the structural integrity of the seal handle. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSeal Specification\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight:  75mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiameter of matrix:  20mm \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeight:  50g \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sigillum Seals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56603877179770,"sku":null,"price":550.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/3626\/9597\/files\/20260219_110708-2.jpg?v=1771510324"},{"product_id":"a-scottish-provincial-masonic-desk-seal","title":"A SCOTTISH PROVINCIAL 19THC WOOD AND SILVER MASONIC DESK SEAL","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSeal Detail\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn early 19th century turned wooden handle (replaced) to the domed seal with foliate collar and reeded decoration to reverse of matrix, the matrix engraved for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMUIR OF RHYNIE LODGE OF MASTER GARDENERS 1822\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eand with emblems to the centre of crossed tools and dove of peace in flight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe seal is of the lodge of Master Gardeners in Muir of Rhynie, between the Firths of Dornoch and Cromarty in Aberdeenshire.  The Muir of Rhynie Lodge was founded in 1812 and appears to have closed sometime after 1834.  Societies of Gardeners have existed in Scotland from the 17th century initially formed by working gardeners to promote an encourage their profession by spreading horticultural knowledge and disseminating new plants, (many known as \"Free Gardeners\").  They welcomed members from other professions and from the 19th century, evolved into a combination of friendly society and Masonic Lodge. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome Gardener's Lodges joined together into orders, but others, such as this one, remained independent with their own complicated rituals.  In general, the symbolism is based on the biblical story of the Creation and the Garden of Eden.  The coded initials PGTE represents the four rivers of Eden, Pishon, Gihon, Tigris and Euphrates and the initials ANS represented Adam, Noah and Solomon, with depictions of suitable images such as Noah's dove or Adam and Eve standing hand in hand.  As in Masonry, these would be combined with the gardening tools of the trade on the lodge's regalia, which would be made locally to the required specifications.  In the case of Muir of Rhynie Lodge, unusually the gardening tools are crossed with three candlesticks, presumably representing enlightenment, and the initials SNA are accompanied by the so-far unidentified letter C.  In other lodges, the letters can be found accompanied by a D for \"dove\" or O for \"olive\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSeal Specification\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight: 110 mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiameter of matrix:  47mm \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeight:  95g \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sigillum Seals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56660393230714,"sku":null,"price":1075.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/3626\/9597\/files\/rn-image_picker_lib_temp_57aa59b3-f169-43d8-9084-2679624a6e72.jpg?v=1773066140"},{"product_id":"gorham","title":"EARLY 19THC ENGLISH EBONY \u0026 SILVER ARMORIAL DESK SEAL FOR THE GORHAM FAMILY","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSeal Detail\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn English ebony and silver armorial desk seal, the handle of flat, drum top form with tapering stem to a silver collar and rectangular cushion mount, set with a bloodstone matrix, engraved with arms and crest above displaying a sword in pale and on its point a garland of laurel, all ppr. for the \u003cstrong\u003eGorham\u003c\/strong\u003e family.   [Of note is the motto banner which has been cut blank]  Presented in excellent condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSeal Specification\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight:  100mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiameter of matrix:  53mm x 24mm \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeight:  55g\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sigillum Seals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56662858039674,"sku":null,"price":125.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/3626\/9597\/files\/20260226_135424.jpg?v=1773340004"},{"product_id":"gibbs","title":"THE GIBB GOLD, SILVER \u0026 TIGER'S EYE DESK SEAL","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSeal Detail\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA fine and highly detailed gold, silver, tiger's eye and gem-set 20th century armorial desk seal, the handle of rounded top form set with an oval cartouche of onyx with a central floral motif depicted by precious stones and outer gold rim set with stones and engraved floral work, the underside mount of ovalised silver, tapering oval stem of tightly fluted tigers-eye with lower collar band of silver and gold, to a base cushion mount of silver with floral decoration and gold metal circular matrix, engraved with full achievement of arms for the family \u003cstrong\u003eGibbs\u003c\/strong\u003e.  The seal is accompanied with its original brown padded suede case with inner ivory coloured suede.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis seal is a particularly well-made mid-20th century precious metal and hardstone desk sel for the family Gibbs. The seal came into the Matrix Collection together with copies of the 2010 Bee Gees album, \"Mythology\" together with a story of how the seal was purportedly linked to the promotion of that album by Barry Gibb.  Whilst there is no provenance to support this story, the seal was purchased because of its fascinating and unusual quality of its production.  The seal was undoubtedly a special commission, given the exuberant use of materials used and is very much of the style of that period.  Of particular interest is the use of the silver band that turns the top section from circular to oval tigers-eye by the careful shaping of both sides of the silver. Such a unique style that in one way looks awkward but in another is pure genius.   The seal matrix has been hand-engraved, so it appears, to a lesser standard than that of the handle and it is curious that the name GIBB is inscribed surmounting the crest. This is normally not evident with an achievement of arms but the motto at the base is. One assumption could be that the album cover shows an armorial with the name GIBB above the crest and if this seal was used as a promotional or personal commission at that time, it would be logical for the two to match. Another point of interest is the original case which is a plain rectangular brown padded suede or faux-suede and the inside an ivory coloured suede or faux-suede.  What is somewhat incongruous is that the case is somewhat bland and underwhelming where the seal is not. There is no name of engraver to boot. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, the conjecture is there and the seal is a mystery and will probably remain so for some time to come.  What is without doubt is the attraction that it offers if merely for its exuberant style and as a wonderful piece of mid-twentieth century seal-work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSeal Specification\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight:  65mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiameter of matrix:  30mm \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeight:  93g\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sigillum Seals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56692569604474,"sku":null,"price":918.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/3626\/9597\/files\/20260226_142525.jpg?v=1773666670"},{"product_id":"17thc-jasper-silver-desk-seal-with-arms-for-brett","title":"17THC JASPER \u0026 SILVER DESK SEAL WITH ARMS FOR BRETT","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSeal Detail\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA large, late 17th or early 18th century English hardstone and silver desk seal, the jasper handle of octagonal baluster form with bulbous head and tapering stem to a silver collar with scalloped edge to an integral oval matrix, well engraved with the full achievement arms for the family \u003cstrong\u003eBrett.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn superb original condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSeal Specification\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight:  90mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiameter of matrix:  19mm x 21mm \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeight:  213g\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sigillum Seals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56758225404282,"sku":null,"price":679.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/3626\/9597\/files\/20260331_101932.jpg?v=1774950682"},{"product_id":"19thc-ebony-silver-scottish-desk-seal-aitoune-of-inchdairnie","title":"19thC EBONY \u0026 SILVER SCOTTISH DESK SEAL - AITOUNE OF INCHDAIRNIE","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSeal Detail\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA 19th century Scottish crest badge desk seal, the ebony handle of typical balsuter form with tapering stem to a silver mount, with floral decoration in relief to a circular matrix, engraved with the crest of a swimming dolphin and outer motto within a belt and buckle border reading:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVIRTUTE NIHIL OBSTAT ET ARMIS (Nothing withstands valour and arms)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA seal for the Scottish family of \u003cb\u003e Aitoune of Inchdairnie\u003c\/b\u003e, of Fife, residents of the Inchdairnie House into the 19th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSeal Specification\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight:  66mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiameter of matrix:  25mm \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeight:  21g\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sigillum Seals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56758633103738,"sku":null,"price":165.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/3626\/9597\/files\/20260331_102119.jpg?v=1774951891"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/3626\/9597\/collections\/813_180511-1_edited-1.jpg?v=1768820242","url":"https:\/\/sigillumseals.co.uk\/collections\/silver-seals.oembed","provider":"Sigillum Seals","version":"1.0","type":"link"}