16th-century signet ring — engraved with symbols — found in Poland monument rubble
The discovery occurred at Wawel Royal Castle, an art museum and one-time residence of Polish kings, located in the heart of Krakow. The museum describes itself as 'the most historically and culturally important site in Poland.'
The finding took place during renovations to a statue of Tadeusz Kościuszko — an 18th century Polish statesman renowned for his role in a national uprising and the American Revolution — on the castle grounds, according to a news release from the museum.
While examining rubble beneath the statue's plinth, an archaeologist stumbled upon a brass signet ring.
The glistening piece of jewelry was dated to the 15th or 16th centuries, making it at least 400 years old.
Engraved on its oblong, flat surface is an unidentified symbol, which resembles two asterisk marks. It could be the mark of a craftsman on a Germanic heraldic shield, museum officials said.
Beneath the symbol, the letters 'IC' — potentially the owner's initials — are visible.
Centuries ago, signet rings were worn by numerous individuals, including civic officials, merchants and aristocrats, according to The Art Institute of Chicago. When pressed into hot wax, they could be used to produce a unique seal, meant to indicate the identity of the owner.
Further research will be conducted on the ring to learn more about its provenance.
Google Translate was used to translate a release from Wawel Royal Castle.
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