Large German Seal Carved Recto-verso And Dated 1687.

Large in scale and finely executed, this carved wooden seal, worked on both recto and verso, displays elaborate details on each side. One face features a quartered shield with a fortified tower and the Agnus Dei, with four hearts at the center. The upper section is characterized by five helmets surmounted by crests, the central helmet adorned with a crown and a mitre. The opposite side is decorated with a large Agnus Dei surmounted by three helmets with complex crests, again with a mitre crowning the central one. Vine tendrils with clusters of grapes descend along the sides of the coat of arms. The date 1687 is engraved at the top. The whole is enclosed within a beaded border and continuous ornamental motifs. A series of additional details, such as swords and pastoral staffs, further enrich this unusual object. The precision and quality of the carving suggest a German manufacture. Aside from some minor defects to the border, the object is in good condition.