Change in the Glass Jewellery Production during the 13th-Century Revolution in Central Europe

A Case Study of a Unique Glass Annular Brooch

Abstract

During excavations in the 1960s at the present castle in Racibórz-Ostróg a unique brooch, made entirely of glass (except an iron pin) was found. We discuss this medieval object’s biography (from the moment and context of its finding to the circumstances how it was lost) and compare it to other glass jewellery from the region. In those territories during the time of the so-called 13^th-century revolution much changed in the production and style – new fashions disrupted former traditions. This brooch is an interesting example of a new (western?) style but manufactured by the use of older techniques. Those traditions are also visible on other jewellery from the same period, such as rings. However, at the end of the 13^th century jewellery made entirely of glass seems to disappear and glass (and enamel) are mostly found in sockets of metal jewellery, or are even entirely imitated using colour metal alloys.