Rare 16th-Century Double-Sided Seal-Matrix Discovered in Central Moscow

Archaeologists uncover an unusual seal-matrix near Church of Elijah the Prophet, featuring a lion and half-length warrior—offering new insights into medieval Russian symbolism

Moscow [Russia], April 17: A team of archaeologists working near the Church of Elijah the Prophet of Obydenny in central Moscow has unearthed an extraordinary double-sided seal-matrix dating back to the 16th to early 17th century, according to an official statement from the Moscow Mayor’s Office, as reported by TV BRICS.

This rare artifact depicts a lion on one side and a waist-length warrior holding a sword and dagger on the other—a highly uncommon artistic representation from the late medieval period. Most historical depictions from the era typically feature full-length figures, making this discovery a significant departure from established norms.

Experts believe the warrior motif, shown only from the waist up, could unveil new perspectives on local iconography and heraldic styles from the late Middle Ages in Russia.

In the same area along Obydenskie Street, researchers also found a 17th-century colored metal overlay featuring a lion motif. According to specialists, such items were likely used as decorative fittings on belts or bags.

From Excavation to Exhibition

All the newly discovered artifacts will be carefully preserved and transferred to museums for further study and public display.

Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin praised the efforts of the city’s archaeological community, highlighting the scale of discoveries over the past decade:

“In the last 14 years, researchers have found more than 120,000 unique items in Moscow. Over 47,000 of those have been added to our museum collections in just the last five years,” Sobyanin noted.

These finds continue to enhance Moscow’s cultural heritage portfolio, offering historians, researchers, and citizens rare glimpses into the city’s rich medieval past.