Archaeologists have unearthed an extraordinary find on Ostrów Lednicki, near Lake Lednica in Poland: a carved male face with a prominent nose, sculpted from an oak beam. This unique discovery dates back to the early medieval period, around the 10th century, and was part of the rampart construction surrounding the stronghold built by the first Piast rulers.
Dr. Mateusz Popek from the Underwater Archaeology Center of Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, who participated in the excavation, shared his surprise at the find. He noted that such discoveries are exceptionally rare, with the lake more commonly yielding spears and swords than carvings of humans or animals.
After cleaning the beam, the research team digitized the object, creating a 3D model. Viewing the model confirmed the clear depiction of a face. Dr. Popek emphasized the rarity of such finds, noting that similar carvings from the period, like those from Wolin, have a cultic character. This discovery sheds new light on early Slavic art and may provide valuable insights into the beliefs and cultural practices of the early inhabitants of Ostrów Lednicki.
Professor Andrzej Pydyn, head of underwater research at Ostrów Lednicki, highlighted the rarity of figurative art from the early Slavs, especially of this size, making the object exceptionally interesting.