Like coins, seals were used in the Middle Ages to depict the person using the seal. The seal of William the Conqueror, shown on horseback, is one of the earliest images of this type on seals. The caption associated with the seal reads: “By this sign, recognise William, chief of the Normans”. Holding a standard in one hand and a shield in the other, he is shown as a warlord leading his army. On the other side, William is shown sitting on a throne, holding a sword in one hand and the globe mounted with a cross in the other. The caption for this side reads: “By this sign, recognise the same, King of England”.
Molding the obverse of the seal of William the Conqueror
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