ntiquity: The use of seals (especially those made of clay or wax) dates back to the Mesopotamians and Egyptians, who used signet rings and cylinder seals to mark ownership or identity.
Middle Ages: In Europe, the wax seal (with wax) became standard for official documents. The seal guaranteed authenticity and secrecy. Only the owner of the seal could affix it.
Renaissance to 18th century
Wax seals became personal emblems: noble coats of arms, initials, or allegorical symbols.
The handles were often elaborately crafted from silver, ivory, or precious stone; the seal itself was engraved in bronze or steel.
In the 17th–18th centuries, the use of private seals also grew among the bourgeoisie, as a sign of status and refinement.
19th century – Romanticism and symbolism
Wax seals became popular in correspondence culture. Letters with red or gold wax seals were an expression of personal style, secrecy, and emotion.
The handles were given decorative shapes (animals, mythological figures, floral motifs) and became art objects in their own right.
Symbolic seal images (such as hands, hearts, mottos) were popular with the Romantic elite.
Circa 1900 – Art Nouveau / collector's item
In the fin de siècle period, wax seals became true works of art: designed by artists in the Art Nouveau style, with graceful lines and natural motifs. Materials such as bronze, enamel, glass, or gemstones transformed the seal into a small sculpture.
