18thC Dutch Steel Armorial Desk Seal - Ernst Frans van Aylva

Seal Detail

A fine Dutch steel armorial desk seal, the handle of squared form with drilled holes for mounting, to an integral steel cylindrical stem and circular matrix, well engraved with armorial shield with twin unicorn supporters under a ducal coronet and mantling at base within a lined border.

The seal of Ernst Frans van Aylva, commissioned into the admiralty in 1753 and served until escaping into exile ahead of the Prussians and dying in St Omer (France) in 1788.

A fine heavy seal in excellent condition.

Seal Specification

Height:  48mm    

Diameter of matrix:  38mm 

Weight:  247g