Medieval Bronze Ecclesiastical Chess Piece Type Seal Matrix for Henry Vicar of Noycln

D-section hoop and disc bezel with 'R' between fronds and crown above; attached to a collector's card with sample seal impression. 7.43 grams, 25.67 mm overall, 20.66 mm internal diameter (approximate size British T 1/2, USA 9 3/4, Europe 21.89, Japan 21)



From the collection of Dame Joan Evans (1893-1977), thence gifted during her lifetime to a gentleman collector friend from South East England.

Dame Joan Evans, DBE, FSA, FRHistS, enjoyed a long and distinguished career as an author and historian. She was appointed the president of the Society of Antiquaries in 1959, the first woman to hold this position, serving until 1964. From 1948 to 1951, Joan Evans served as President of the Royal Archaeological Institute. She received the Society’s gold medal in 1973. Joan Evans was honoured with a host of honorary degrees and fellowships, as well as fellowships of the Royal Historical Society and the Royal Society of Literature. She was a Chevalier of the Légion d’Honneur, and was appointed a Dame of the British Empire in 1976. She served as a trustee of both the London and the British museums, and as a member of the advisory council of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Slender hoop and teardrop-shaped bezel with inset garnet cabochon. 0.79 grams, 20.15 mm overall, 16.97 mm internal diameter (approximate size British M 1/2, USA 6 1/4, Europe 13.09, Japan 12)



From the collection of a late Japanese gentleman, 1970-2000s.

Heater-shaped with heraldic design of flowers, pierced at the bottom. 7.14 grams, 46 mm



From the private collection of the late Graham Slater (1927-2024), Cambridge, UK, acquired 1980s-1990s.