French Brass Wood 19thC Ecclesiastical Desk Seal

Seal Detail

An interesting French desk seal dating to the 19th century, the handle of turned wood of rounded top form and banded stem, to a larger oval brass matrix, well engraved with a central scene depicting Jesus Christ in His Glory greeting two Saints on either side, standing in front of columns and archways and circumscription within lined border reading:

SIGILLUM ECCL.R.CATH.ELEK.AD.B.M.V.VISIT.ELIS.837

A Catholic seal believed to be relating to the Jesuits in France - although it is not yet understood the significance of the reference to Elis (Prophet Elisha?) and 837.

Anyone who can help with solving this conundrum would be much appreciated!

The seal is in excellent condition, good patina to the wood handle and no discernible damage.

Seal Specification

Height 75mm

Diameter of matrix  30mmx35mm 

Weight 73g