Wessex Archaeology: Medieval Seal Designing

Overview:  

Discover Medieval seals, what they were used for and their imagery. Then, design and decorate your own seal. This activity was inspired by the discovery of a seal matrix in Coleshill. 

Learning Objectives: 

• Explain the difference between a seal and a seal matrix and describe how they were used. 
• Match animals or objects to the quality that they symbolise. 
• Design a seal using objects, animals and text. 

Students will use the Essential Skill of Listening, Speaking, Problem Solving and Creativity. 

Delivery notes: 

This lesson will take about 35–50 minutes to complete, plus 10-15 minutes for an optional extension activity. 

Students will need paper, drawing materials, stencils and scissors.  

Optional materials: mirrors, glue sticks and craft items. 

Find out more:

• Coleshill seal matrix on Sketchfab
• Symbols and their meaning use