What is the Purpose of a Wax Seal?
A wax seal serves both practical and symbolic purposes. Historically, wax seals were used as a form of authentication and to ensure the integrity of a document or letter. Here are some of the main purposes of a wax seal:
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Authentication: Before the advent of modern methods of authentication, such as signatures or official stamps, wax seals were used to verify the sender's identity. The unique design or emblem on the wax seal represented the individual or organisation sending the letter.
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Security: The wax seal acted as a tamper-evident closure for letters and documents. If the wax seal was broken, it indicated that the letter had been opened or tampered with during transit.
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Symbol of Authority or Status: Wax seals were often associated with individuals of high social status, nobility, or those in positions of authority. The use of a wax seal conveyed a sense of importance and legitimacy.
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Personalisation: The design of the wax seal was often unique to the individual or family, featuring a crest, emblem, initials, or some other personal symbol. This added a personal touch to the correspondence.
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Aesthetic and Decorative Element: In addition to their practical functions, wax seals were also valued for their aesthetic appeal. The colorful wax and the impression of the seal added an element of elegance and sophistication to letters and documents.
While wax seals are less commonly used for official documents today due to advancements in technology, they continue to be used for decorative and ceremonial purposes. Some people use wax seals for invitations, certificates, or other special documents to add a touch of tradition and craftsmanship.
