Objects of Substance - School_Seal

leaves, dainty red flowers and matching red buds. However, some seal presses were so ornate, that they were integrated with the heads of lions or eagles, others, known as percussion presses (similar to how staplers work today) had frogs or buffalo worked into their composition, but my personal favourite is that of the lever seal press exhibiting a human hand in its overall design.

Left- and Right-Hand American Seal Presses, c. 1860s.

Although it does not appear as such, our seal is a beast - it is heavy. Seal presses can average a weight of ten pounds, which is the equivalent to over four and half kilograms. But contrary to its weighty might, the seal was obviously designed for portability. It is housed in a custom-made wooden box, that may be locked with a key, complete with a metal handle for ease and comfort during transportation.