Fine 18thC English Silver Lignum Vitae Armorial Desk Seal - Earl of Ducie

Seal Detail

A fine and rare 18th century English armorial desk seal, the lignum vitae handle of baluster form tapering stem to a tall silver collar and circular matrix, well engraved with a full achievement of arms comprising quartered shield, below a helm, crest and decorative mantling.

The seal has the crest and arms of Moreton and Reynolds, exactly as borne by the Earls of Ducie today.  Sir Robert Ducie was created a baronet in 1629, two years later becoming Lord Mayor of London.  Of immense wealth, he was banker to Charles I and is said to have been worth £400,000 on his death. His grand-daughter and eventual heir was Elizabeth Ducie who married Edward Moreton; their son and grandson were the 1st and 2nd Barons Ducie of Moreton, the latter also being created Lord Ducie of Tortworth.  On his death without heirs this latter title devolved upon his sister’s son, Thomas Reynolds, who, as 2nd Baron assumed in 1771 the surname and arms of Moreton.  On his death without issue in 1785, the title passed to his brother, Francis, who had also assumed the name and arms of Moreton.  Francis’ eldest son was created 1st Earl of Ducie.

Because of the quarterings on the seal, which also bears the helm of a gentleman, it cannot have been made before 1771.  Unless Francis himself had used these quarterings between 1771 and 1785, the first possible owner of the seal would either be his eldest son, Thomas (born 1776) before he succeeded in 1808, or his younger son, Augustus, born 1777.

In excellent condition.

Seal Specification

Height:  77mm

Diameter of matrix:  25mm 

Weight: 55g