Description
Handcrafted Replica of the Great Seal of King Stephen (c. 1135)
Bring a tangible piece of 12th-century history into your home with this meticulously handcrafted exact replica of the Great Seal of King Stephen. Moulded directly from an impression of Stephen’s original royal seal, each piece is individually cast and finished by hand in our craft workshop nestled in the heart of West Wales. Measuring approximately 90mm in diameter, this striking historical artifact captures the rich iconography and royal authority of the Anglo-Norman era. The design depicts King Stephen seated in majesty upon his throne, holding a drawn sword in one hand and an orb surmounted by a cross and bird in the other. Encircling the rim is the authentic Latin inscription: STEPHANVS DEI GRATIA REX (“Stephen, by the grace of God, King”). Whether you are a medieval history enthusiast, collector, or looking for a unique statement piece, this museum-quality replica bridges centuries of craftsmanship.
King Stephen (of Blois) ruled as King of England from 1135 until his death in 1154. His reign was famously tumultuous, defined by a fierce, protracted civil war known as “The Anarchy” sparked by a succession crisis following the death of his uncle, Henry I. Stephen spent much of his crown battling his cousin, Empress Matilda, for control of the English throne. Despite facing relentless rebellions, shifting loyalties, and a divided kingdom, Stephen managed to secure his crown for nearly two decades through sheer resilience, ultimately paving the way for a negotiated peace and the establishment of the Plantagenet dynasty.
