C1760 Brass German Named Notarial Desk Seal

Seal Detail

An early brass German Notarial desk seal, dating to circa 1760, the handle of turned wood of rounded top form and flared lower section with securing pin to a brass circular matrix, well engraved and displaying signs of prolonged use, the central depiction is of a running/jumping horned cow/ass, with an inscription within a ribbon border and circumscription within a lined border, both reading:

NOTAR : PVBL : CAESAR : IVRAT: IONNES BENJAMIN FREDERICVS ASSMAN

SAEVOFLVITORE VOLUPTAS

A seal belonging to the notary John Assman.  As in many circumstances, notaries liked to use an image on a pun of their name.  In this case, I believe it relates to an ASS(man) jumping in the picture and the sentimental message meaning "for the pure pleasure of jumping".

The seal is in a wonderful, original condition meaning that it has a good patina, wear to the matrix and the handle has historic cracks to it - just wonderful! 

Seal Specification

Height 98mm

Diameter of matrix  37mm 

Weight 107g