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Ancient 17th-Century Ship Part Discovered in Arkhangelsk
3 Nov
Summary
- Largest and most integral stitched Pomor vessel element found in Russia.
- Vessel planks were chopped and hewn with an axe, stitched with spruce twigs.
- Artifact preserved exceptionally well due to peat's oxygen-free environment.
A rare 17th-century stitched Pomor naval vessel element, the most complete of its kind discovered in Russia, is now featured at the Northern Maritime Museum in Arkhangelsk. This significant find, unearthed during restoration work in the city center, offers a glimpse into ancient shipbuilding. The vessel's side boards were hewn with an axe and meticulously stitched together using spruce twigs, a testament to traditional Pomor craftsmanship. This ancient craft allowed for the creation of vessels approximately 20 meters long, well-suited for northern seas.
The artifact's exceptional preservation is due to its location in a peat bog, an oxygen-free environment that protected the wood for centuries. Following its discovery, the delicate wooden element underwent extensive conservation. Professionals meticulously cleaned it and injected a specialized solution to replace cellulose, preventing decay upon exposure to air. This painstaking process ensures the artifact can be studied and displayed.
During conservation, traces of repairs with metal forged brackets were observed, suggesting the fragment was reinforced after its active service. The presence of salt on the wood surface strongly indicates its origin as part of a naval vessel. Scientists are also conducting dendrology tests to determine the exact felling year of the trees used to construct the ship.
