Saxon & Medieval — Late Medieval; early-mid 14th century
Seal of John Picot
Seals were used to authenticate documents, much as signatures are today. In all classes of society, men and women used them in formal or legal transactions. They were closely guarded and often worn as a signet ring or hung on a chain around the owner's neck. This particular seal matrix bears a Latin inscription - 'S' IONIS PICOT' (S[eal] of John Picot) - and the Picot family coat of arms. The Picots were wealthy merchants and Aldermen of London (part of the City government). A John Picot is recorded as being active in the Bishopsgate ward in 1346 - this seal matrix may be his.
- Category:
- Saxon & Medieval
- Object ID:
- 8935
- Object name:
- Seal of John Picot
- Object type:
- Artist/Maker:
- —
- Related people:
- Related events:
- Related places:
- Production date:
- Late Medieval; early-mid 14th century
- Material:
copper alloy, brass
- Measurements/duration:
- H 25 mm, DM 19 mm (overall)
- Part of:
- —
- On display:
- —
- Record quality:
- 100%
- Part of this object:
- —
- Owner Status & Credit:
Permanent collection
- Copyright holder:
digital image © London Museum
- Image credit:
- —
- Creative commons usage:
- —
- License this image:
To license this image for commercial use, please contact the London Museum Picture Library.