symbolic object that had regulated the oral and ritual system of property transfers and
judicial settlements. The medieval seal, thus standing at the junction of literate and oral
tradition, encouraged trust in the written word by incorporating participatory, tactile, and
iconic practices associated with an orality that remained throughout the Middle Ages the
framework in which literacy and documentation functioned.
Brigitte Bedos-Rezak
Bedos-Rezak, Brigitte. “The Social Implications of the Art of Chivalry: The Sigillographic
Evidence (France, 1050–1250).” In The Medieval Court in Europe, ed. Edward R.Haymes.
Munich: Fink, 1986, pp. 142–75.
——.“Suger and the Symbolism of Royal Power: The Seal of Louis VII.” In Abbot Suger and Saint
Denis, ed. Paula L. Gerson. New York: Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1986, pp. 95–103.
——. “Women, Seals and Power in Medieval France, 1150–1350.” In Women and Power in the
Middle Ages, ed. Mary Erler and Maryanne Kowaleski. Athens: University of Georgia Press,
1988, pp. 61–82.
Candilhon, René, and Michel Pastoureau. Bibliographie de la sigillographie française. Paris:
Picard, 1982.
Pastoureau, Michel. Les sceaux. Turnhout: Brepols, 1981.
SÉES
(Séez). The present cathedral of Notre-Dame at Sées (Orne) replaces one burned in 1174
by Henry II Plantagenêt. Among the finest examples of Norman Gothic architecture, it
was begun from the west side in the early 13th century. The well-proportioned nave with
three stories—arcades, triforium, and high pointed arches—reflects English influence.
The transept and choir with clerestory and ambulatory, begun ca. 1280 under Bishop Jean
de Bernières (r. 1278–94), were inspired by Paris. They are lit by 13th-century square-
framed rose windows, remarkable for their finely carved tracery. The façade with porch
and bell towers dates from the 14th century; its main portal has an impressive tympanum
of the Virgin.
William W.Kibler/William W.Clark
Gobillot, René. La cathédrale de Séez. Paris: Laurens, 1937.
——. “Sées.” Congrèsarchéologique(Ome) 111(1953):39–58.
Lafond, Jean. “Les vitraux de la cathédrale de Sées.” Congrès archéologique (Orne) 111(1953):59–
83.
SEIGNEUR/SEIGNEURIE
. By the end of the Middle Ages, various kinds of people were called “lord” (Lat.
dominus, Fr. seigneur, sire), including members of the old military aristocracy and people
of humble origins who had acquired a privileged occupation or title. Most commonly,
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