SEALS OF THE ORDER OF ST. JOHN.
1. The seal of Raymond du Puy.
This was found under the walls of Norwich castle. On the obverse is the Custos kneeling before a patriarchal cross, the legend being † Raimundus Custos Hospitalis Hierusalem. On the reverse is a church with three domes, doubtless intended for that of the Holy Sepulchre. The lower half shews the interior, with the tomb of our Lord. At the head is a cross, above is a lamp, and at the foot what is probably intended for a swinging censer. The legend is † Hospitale De Hierusalem. An account of this seal will be found in the “Archreological Journal,” vol. x., page 141.
2. A seal somewhat similar to the above, but of considerably later date. On the obverse a group of knights are kneeling before the cross, with the legend † Bulla Magistr et Conventus. On the reverse the church takes a Gothic form. The representation of our Lord is more distinct, but has the same adjuncts. The legend is † Hospitalis Jherusalem.
3. A seal of the priory of England, with the head of St. John the Baptist.
4. A seal of the priory of England, probably the first seal of that institution, early in the twelfth century.
5. A seal of the grand-priory of England, shewing the prior in the act of pronouncing the benediction.
