K interpretácii náhodného nálezu stredovekého pečatidla zo Spišského Podhradia
On the interpretation of the accidental discovery of a medieval seal matrix in Spišské Podhradie

Summary/Abstract: In 2018, a medieval silver seal matrix was discovered accidentally at the technical dig being conducted in Spišské Podhradie (district of Levoča) in front of the house nr. 108/5 in Galova St. (fig. 1). The diameter of a circular flat matrix is 24 mm, its thickness is 13 mm (including a lug) and its weight is 12, 20 g. On the reverse there is a silver pierced lug, used for holding the matrix on a cord or a string. The central graphic emblem of the matrix is represented by a chopped longhaired head with a part of the neck attached, laying on its right side on a plate (a tray or a bowl), depicting St. John the Baptist. Over the laying head there is majuscule R. The field around the motif is filled with precise damask floral pattern. The astragal separates the legend around the matrix both from the central field and the edge of matrix. The legend, engraved with gothic majuscule, reads: + S(IGILLVM) • PLEBA(N)I • DE • BALDMAR (fig. 2). The type of a seal matrix and the font engraved date the discovery back to the second third of 14th century. Historical analysis of the artefact has identified it with the parish of Harichovce (Villa Baldmari). The patron saint of the former gothic church in Harichovce was St. John the Baptist. Built in 18th century, the new church was dedicated to the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The analysis of preserved medieval diplomas has indicated that the seal matrix was likely to be owned by one of the priests who had served in the 14th century in the parish of Harichovce.

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