01.

Early 19thC Mahogany, Brass & Glass NELSON

Seal Detail

A very fine example of an early 19th century desk seal, commemorating the victory of Nelson at Trafalgar 1805.  The fine mahogany handle, of dished top form and with an inverted baluster stem, tapering to a plain brass collar and integrated brass matrix mount, set with a purple glass matrix, engraved with a central depiction bust of Horatio Nelson within a belted inscription reading:

ENGLAND EXPECTS EVERY MAN TO DO HIS DUTY

A seal commemorating the victory by Nelson at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, before which, as Admiral of the English fleet, broadcast the message to his fleet before comprehensively defeating the combined forces of the French and Spanish fleets. This seal was very likely made soon after the victory as a commemorative piece to reinforce the sentiment displayed within the quote.

Seal Specification

Height: 95mm

Diameter of matrix:  24mmx27mm 

Weight 60g