This cloth seal was found in Catford. Stamped lead seals were widely used
in cloth-producing countries in Europe from the 13th-19th century. This
example was made in Castres near Toulouse in southern France. On one side
are the crowned arms of France and the date 1676. On the other side are
the arms of Castres. Since medieval times Castres has been a major centre
of wool production in France.
What was it used for?
Small leaden seals were attached to textiles that were going to be sold.
The seal was stamped with the maker's mark. This identified who had made
it. Then the authorities checked the cloth to make sure the quality was
good enough for the market. If it passed this test, they then stamped it
with their official mark.
Everyday object from the past
These small lead seals would have been a common sight at markets
throughout Europe. Groups of cloth seals found near running water may
indicate the presence of a cloth dyer's establishment.
