An exceptional and historically documented Georgian triple seal fob, circa 1730, bearing the armorial crest of Baron Johan Löwen of Sweden, a rare survival of aristocratic identity, craftsmanship, and original function.
This remarkable piece has been researched by the College of Arms, London, confirming its attribution to Baron Johan Löwen and dating it to the period immediately following his elevation to the Swedish peerage in 1731. Few antique seals can be tied so directly to a named historical figure, rarer still to retain multiple matrices, each crisply cut and fully usable nearly 300 years later.
Crafted in a white metal with a rotating steel seal, the fob presents three distinct intaglios:
* A full armorial achievement with Baron’s coronet
* A crest with heraldic elements
* A finely engraved “JL” monogram beneath a Baron’s coronet
Each matrix remains sharp and highly legible, producing beautifully defined impressions, not merely decorative, but still entirely functional.
The upper mount is a piece of Georgian metalsmithing in its own right. Elegant scrollwork and bead detailing form a sculptural bale, leading to a generous suspension loop. It wears effortlessly as a pendant or can be mounted to a watch chain, as originally intended.
A rare opportunity to acquire a documented 18th-century nobleman’s seal, still turning, still sealing, and still carrying its story forward.
~ WHY THIS PIECE STANDS APART ~
* Documented provenance via the College of Arms (copy included)
* Rare triple seal configuration
* Named aristocratic ownership
* Fully functional matrices with crisp impressions
* Early Georgian date (circa 1730)
Comparable documented Georgian seals of this calibre are seldom encountered on the open market, particularly with this level of completeness and attribution. A copy of the official College of Arms research correspondence will be included with the piece. Should you wish to review the full heraldic description in advance, I’m very happy to provide it.
~ CONDITION ~
Very, very good for its age (approaching 300 years). Light, age-appropriate surface wear consistent with careful use. The mechanism rotates smoothly, and all three seals produce clean impressions.
~ SPECIFICATIONS ~
DATE: Georgian, circa 1730
MATERIALS: Steel seal matrices; upper mount in white metal (acid tested, not silver; consistent with period construction)
HEIGHT: 4.5 cm / 1.75 inches
MATRIX SIZE: 2.2 x 1.8 cm
WEIGHT: 19.3 grams
Examples of seals combining documented provenance, mechanical complexity, and survival in fully functional condition are increasingly difficult to source.
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
* Free worldwide shipping on all purchases.
* Returns - you can return your item for a refund for any reason. Just get in touch within 3 days of receiving your order and return it within 7 days.
* All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. All measurements and carat weights given are approximations.
* Our photographs have been taken in extreme close up to show you every tiny detail. This often means that any flaws or damage which you can see on the photos will be invisible when viewed normally with the eye. This can also mean that the item can appear larger on the screen than it is in person, so please be sure to read our written description to double check all sizes and dimensions.
* Buying a gift? – your item will arrive gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note, unless otherwise stated antique boxes in our photos are for display only and are not included in the purchase.
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Materials: Sterling Silver, Steel.