Lead bulla of Boniface VIII (1294-1303) of usual form, the obverse reading BONI/FATIVS•/•PP:VIII
The reverse has the standard heads of Saints Paul and Peter within pelleted aureoles, beneath ‘SPASPE’. The bulla is in a slightly corroded condition, so that, although the design is legible, there is surface corrosion on the obverse, partially obscuring the lettering. The reverse is in slightly better condition, the head of St Peter the more clear. Little survives of the surrounding circle of pellets on either the obverse or reverse as the edges appear to have been blunted, giving a more square profile that, in some places, thickens back on itself. The overall impression is of a bulla that has been knocked around a bit before burial.
Although parts of the reverse surface survive quite well, there are few obvious marks that could be indicative of die flaws. The only more certain markings are the two slightly raised lines that extend perpendicular from the nostrils to the upper lip of St Peter, as previously noted on bullae of Martin IV (1281-85). The reverse is sealed at 351º to the obverse - quite a loose sealing. This is the fifth bulla of Boniface VIII to have been recorded from the medieval diocese of Norwich, making it a relatively frequent bulla type and one typical of the thirteenth and early fourteenth century.
Dr Tim Pestell - Norwich Castle Museum
A Papal Bull was an official letter or charter from the Pope to all Christedom and was named after the lead bulla or seal which was attached to the document as authentication