01.
Early 19thC Brass Machine Mounted Armorial Wax Seal for Columbia
Seal Detail
An unusual early 19th century brass matrix, the reverse formed to fit a machine press with slide-in section and locking notch, the obverse of oval form engraved with the following, courtesy of Google:
"Shield:
- The shield is divided horizontally into three sections (tierced per fess).
- The top section (chief) is blue, with a gold pomegranate in the center, a cornucopia overflowing with coins on the left, and a cornucopia overflowing with fruits and vegetables on the right.
- The middle section (fess) is white.
- The bottom section (base) is blue, featuring the Isthmus of Panama, with two black ships with white sails.
- A red Phrygian cap, a symbol of liberty, is placed on a lance in the centre of the shield.
Crest:
- An Andean condor, depicted with wings spread (displayed) and facing right (dexter), is perched above the shield.
- The condor holds an olive branch in its beak and a scroll with the national motto.
Overall Symbolism:
- The condor symbolizes freedom.
- The olive branch represents peace.
- The motto emphasizes the values of liberty and order.
- The pomegranate symbolizes harmony.
- The cornucopias represent the nation's wealth and resources.
- The ships recall Colombia's maritime history.
- The Isthmus of Panama (connecting North and South America) is a historical and geographical reference.
- The Phrygian cap is a classic symbol of liberty and the French Revolution"
An interesting example of an unusual seal, presented here in excellent condition.
Seal Specification
Height: 10mm
Diameter of matrix: 20mmx24mm
Weight: 40g
