Wax Seal Impressions from Switzerland and Germany collection

The collection consists of 246 wax seal impressions dating from the fourteenth to eighteenth centuries. Originally from Switzerland (e.g., Bern, Basel, Zurich, Appenzel) and Germany (e.g, Prussia, Baden), these seals were used to authenticate documents, charters, and other correspondence during this time period. To create the impression, a matrix is cast (usually made of metal, ivory, or stone) with the negative image on the end. Impressions were originally made with the matrix on a medium of pure beeswax, however, during the eleventh century experimentation with pigments began and the compositions of the mediums were altered in order to create a harder wax and a sharper image. The medium for the impression became an amalgamation of substances (usually a mixture of beeswax with resin, clay, or soft metals), which differed per country. While clearer images were created, the seals themselves became more brittle, ultimately causing cracks to form. The sizes and shapes of the seals also varied, with royal and noble seals steadily increasing in diameter.