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The family motto is displayed within the circumference of the seal; the most accurate translation for this specific heraldic context is:
“Earthly things are but three changes” (or “Earthly things are thrice-changing“)
The Symbolic Meaning:
In heraldry, this motto is a reflection on the transience of life. It suggests that worldly status, wealth, and life itself are subject to constant change and will eventually pass away. It is a variation of the Memento Mori theme (“Remember you must die”), reminding the viewer that earthly honors are temporary.
Just below the horse courant (running horse) at the top of the seal is probably an “eye of providence”, the symbol of Freemasonry. If this is the “eye”, it is very unusual and may be a key to determining the original owner. It is difficult to take the research farther. If it is not an eye, it could be a personal emblem added to the armorial.
The seal is unusually large and complex, and this could indicate that it was made for an English landowner with colonial holdings, a merchant trading wine to the Americas, or a colonial official who ordered the bottles from England.
Item Date: Circa 1745-1760
Measurement: Height: 8.25"; Diameter: 4.75"
Material: Bottle glass
Item Condition: Very good condition. No significant damage, no star cracks or cracks. normal wear
Price: $2,375
SKU 843-630
For More Information, Please Contact David Hillier at 978-597-8084 or email drh@aaawt.com.