Dutch term – Broodzegel

A broodzegel (literally: bread seal) is an old way to seal documents using bread and paper.

In the late Middle Ages, smaller wax seals were sometimes covered with paper to help preserve the imprint. Sometimes, bread or dough was used instead of wax. Such a seal would be called a broodzegel.

Document with bread seal

Bread seal of Rotterdam (detail)


Source: Photo and information from Stadsarchief Rotterdam Facebook post; citing 1-01_2162: Records relating to the case between Gorinchem, Schoonhoven and Rotterdam versus Dordrecht about the continuation of the so-called octrooi serviel of 1520, 1551-1563, with older records. Used with permission.
About Yvette Hoitink

Yvette Hoitink, CG®, QG™ is a professional genealogist in the Netherlands. She holds the Certified Genealogist credential from the Board for Certification of Genealogists and has a post-graduate diploma in Family and Local History from the University of Dundee. She has been doing genealogy for over 30 years and helps people from across the world find their ancestors in the Netherlands. Read about Yvette's professional genealogy services.

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