This is a small 8 sided seal matrix bearing an oval portrait of Robert Burns, with a bird above and a small tree below. The white ivory handle is elaborate with several decorative grooves. It is engraved:
'WOOD NOTES WILD / BETTER A WEE BUSH THAN NAE BIELD / DUMFRIES/ BURNS CLUB'
A seal matrix was used to stamp a distinguishing mark onto molten wax as a means of representing identity, authority and status.