Source 1: Great Seal of King James IV

These images show each side of the Great Seal of King James IV of Scotland. James, as a true mediaeval king, wished to portray himself as a strong, powerful knight who was able to fight for and defend his people.

The symbols used in the design reinforce this. On the front or obverse, he is shown seated on his throne, in flowing robes, wearing a crown and holding an orb and sceptre in his hands. The inscription round the edge of the seal reads Jacobus Die Gratia Scotia Rex which means James by the grace of God king of Scotland.

On the back or reverse of the seal, he is shown on horseback, wearing a helmet topped with a crown. He holds a shield in his left hand and a sword in his right. Trefoils, like leaves, are scattered in the background and the same inscription appears.

(National Records of Scotland reference: RH17/1/51)