18th Century Wax Seal Stamp – Bust of King Friedrich Wilhelm II of Prussia

This is a finely crafted 18th century desk wax seal stamp, bearing the profile bust of King Friedrich Wilhelm II of Prussia (1744–1797), the nephew and successor of Frederick the Great. The stamp is housed in a decorative bronze handle featuring openwork scrolls and a shell motif, typical of late Baroque to early Neoclassical design.

The matrix face clearly shows a bust portrait in high relief, framed within an oval border. Impressions taken in sealing wax (several of which survive with this piece) confirm the likeness and provide strong historical attribution. The accompanying handwritten note references its association with Friedrich Wilhelm II and identifies it as dating to his reign between 1786 and 1797.

Historical Context:
Friedrich Wilhelm II succeeded his uncle, Frederick the Great, as King of Prussia in 1786. His reign marked a shift away from his uncle’s strict militarism, introducing more indulgent court life, religious reforms, and patronage of the arts. He is remembered for both his extravagant personal life and for steering Prussia through the turbulent years of the French Revolution. A personal seal such as this would have been used for correspondence and documents, adding a physical emblem of royal authority and identity in an era before widespread literacy.

Physical Description:

• Material: Bronze handle with original seal matrix

• Design: Openwork handle with scroll and shell ornamentation; oval matrix depicting Friedrich Wilhelm II
  

• Condition: The seal remains well-preserved with strong detail to the bust. Wax impressions included with the piece show crisp detail, though with expected wear from age. Handle retains original patina.

Collector’s Note:
This is a highly desirable royal-associated artifact from the late 18th century, representing the transition of power after Frederick the Great’s reign. Authentic portrait seals of reigning monarchs are scarce, particularly those still paired with contemporary wax impressions and provenance notes. For advanced collectors of Prussian royal memorabilia, 18th century political history, or antique wax seals, this piece represents a museum-quality find.