$80.00
Qty available: 1

I crack nuts says the squirrel munching on a nut on this very rustic and cheeky little medieval squirrel wax seal necklace pendant. The little squirrel holding a nut in its paws is surrounded by the Latin legend I CRAKE NOTIS which translates I CRACK NUTS and in its day was classified as witty. It was actually a common wax seal and legend, readily available for purchase "over the counter." Witty medieval wax seal jewelry.

- symbolism -
Some historians say that the cracking of nuts could be an analogy for cracking open a seal, when it was used to close and secure a letter, or it could describe the ability of the owner (of the seal) to deal with difficult situations or tough negotiations but others suggest it has a more bawdy meaning and it symbolized sexual conquest.

- approximate measurement - 3/4” (20mm)
- wax seal charm metal - sterling silver (.925 silver)
- photographed with a US dime and a one inch ruler for scale
- chain - a sterling silver cable chain with a spring ring clasp
- select the necklace chain length or just the charm at checkout

Hand crafted from a small round bronze chessman type wax seal, that dates back to the 14th century. 

Impressed with history!

*You can see a seal matrix just like this in the collection at the Museum of London: http://collections.museumoflondon.org.uk/online/object/37618.html