General characteristics

Title:

Lead chapter méreau

Identification:

Circular lead méreau; on the obverse a stag standing, turned to the left, its forelegs resting on a rock; on the reverse, II separated by a pellet and surmounted by two flames recalling lit candles

Dimensions:

Diam. 22 × Th. 4 mm

Date:

18th century

Place and year of discovery:

Saint-Piat collegiate church, Seclin, 2016

Inventory no.:

158237_111_1002_1

Collection:

Archaeological collection of the city of Seclin

Description

This circular lead méreau bears, on the obverse, a stag standing and turned to the left, its forelegs resting on a rock. On the reverse, the numeral II is separated by a pellet and surmounted by two flames recalling lit candles.

Found beneath the present paving of the Saint-Piat collegiate church, this chapter méreau struck in the 18th century was handed to the clergy as they entered the choir for the offices. It entitled its holder to a portion of bread and wine, which could be given to a person in need, and its value also allowed it to be exchanged for real coin.

The stag refers to the arms of the Saint-Piat chapter of Seclin.

© Ville de Seclin