19thC Gold Mounted Agate Desk Seal - CONCEPTIO DEI NEGATIO MEI RATIO REI

Seal Detail

A fine English 19th century gold mounted agate desk seal, the handle of banded agate of flat top form with tapering stem to a gold fluted mount inset with a carnelian matrix  of rectangular form with rounded corners, engraved with a scroll and inscription reading:

CONCEPTIO DEI NEGATIO MEI RATIO REI (Conception of God, Denial of Self, Reason of Things)

A seal belonging to the British physician, Sir William Withey Gull.  The motto he incorporated hints at his philosophical outlook, possibly hinting at a connection between divine understanding, self-denial, and the rational exploration of the natural world.

The seal is presented in excellent condition.

Seal Specification

Height:  90mm

Diameter of matrix:  15mmx20mm 

Weight:  67g