Templar Matrix Fabrication and Utilization

Templar Matrix Fabrication and Utilization Robert M. Cutler, Potomac, MD, May 2018 Abstract This paper is intended to be read as an addendum to my paper “Templar Two-Knight Matrix Linked to Original Seal.” In response to comments, I offer additional ideas regarding the fabrication and utilization of my seal matrix. This paper is an addendum to my very recent academia.edu paper “Templar Two-Knight Matrix Linked to Original Seal.” More specifically, we will consider the fabrication and utilization of my seal matrix, which was shown to have been re-created by a molding process from the medieval wax seal used by the Knight Templar Master Friedrich Wildgraf von Kyrburg in 1289 at Kirchheim, and is now in the state archives at Munich. Fabrication The creation of the silver two-knights Templar die by molding, such as by the lost-wax method, has already been discussed. Of additional interest, as mentioned very helpfully by Secretary General of the Société Française d'Héraldique et de Sigillographie (French Society of Heraldry and Sigillography) Dr. Dominique M. Delgrange, is the fastening of the iron-alloy spike to the center of the silver die, projecting perpendicularly from its rear face. More specifically, we will consider how the dissimilar alloys could have been joined. Welding is possible, but not likely because it would require the melting of the alloys of iron (if cast, melting point about 1100-1200 C) and silver (about 800-900 C). Such temperatures would probably have been difficult to reach at the rear of the die without damage to its front. As suggested by Mechanical Engineer Antoine Selosse, “strong brazing” or so-called “hard soldering” with a silver-based “solder” that melts at about 450 C is a more suitable joining method. Mr. Selosse also mentioned the alternative of spike insertion into the die during its casting, immediately prior to its solidification. Finally, we may consider whether a hole could have been drilled into the die that would have allowed the spike to be forced tightly into the hole. Some type of glue may have been used. We must admit that we have not risked damage to the matrix by applying much force to the spike. Perhaps the fastening method is not very secure. Without more knowledge regarding the fastening method, we cannot determine the period during which the matrix may have been fabricated. However, some reader of this paper may be able to recognize joining methods that could or could not have been used, and at what dates possible methods were available for use. For this reason, we are including several photographs of the joint: Joint of spike and die on reverse face of matrix (shown in 12 views). Utilization Dr. Delgrange kindly sent a link to a video showing medieval seal fabrication: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UsTNyhL4VYE Medieval seal wax, like today’s modeling clay and modeling wax, was soft enough to be hand molded to the die, and the seal matrix did not require an extended handle. Dr. Delgrange also noted that, after the 16th century, waxes were more rigid, like today’s common paraffin wax used for candles, requiring more pressure to acquire good seal die images. However, I have found that my silver matrix can work well on melted paraffin wax after it begins to solidify at about 50 C, accepting and holding the die impression. Firm finger pressure is sufficient, with no need for an extended handle. The function of my matrix’s spike, apparently for insertion into an extended wood handle, is uncertain. However, the composition of the matrix die suggests a solution. Since an alloy of copper (e.g., bronze) or iron (e.g., steel) would have been harder and less expensive than the silver die, its composition was chosen for a different reason. Perhaps the reason was ceremonial. While lesser nobles and knights used bronze seal matrices, a Master of the Knights Templar may be thought to have used silver to show his special importance. In addition, if the Master was considered to have personally applied his seal, a hand hold could have been used to display his silver matrix and to separate his hands from the wax during seal impression and removal. PAGE 8