Wax seal of Floris, Count of Holland c. 1266 - 1296

This wax seal, dating from the late 13th century, belonged to Floris V, Count of Holland. It depicts a knight on horseback, wielding a sword and shield, a common heraldic motif representing power and authority. The inscription around the seal, which reads "S. FLORIS COMITIS HOLLANDIE," confirms its purpose as a seal of authenticity for official documents. Such wax seals were essential in medieval times, providing legal validity to agreements and treaties. This seal, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, is a valuable artifact offering insight into the history of the Counts of Holland and medieval practices of governance.