Richard’s first great seal was probably made in France in August 1189 shortly after his accession. It is far more naturalistic in design than that of the late king. As was usual, Richard would have entrusted it to the custody of his chancellor, William Longchamp.⁸ The new great seal was put into use almost immediately after Richard’s coronation, which took place on 3 September.⁹ From December 1189 to March 1190 Richard was in France, with Longchamp at home looking after the kingdom. The great seal, which had to be kept in close attendance upon the king at all times, was, therefore, entrusted to John de Alençon, archdeacon of Lisieux, as seal bearer and vice-chancellor.¹⁰ In March Richard left for the Holy Land and henceforth the great seal was carried further afield by Roger Malcael, the king’s seal-bearer. In April 1191 disaster struck when he was drowned off Cyprus. Roger’s body along with the seal were washed ashore and the seal quickly returned to the king.¹¹ After this it continued with Richard on his crusade.