A press conference by the Canton of Zurich has announced the discovery of an exceptionally well-preserved 14th-century gauntlet during archaeological excavations in Pfäffikon, Switzerland.
The intact gauntlet, a four-fold finger glove worn on the right hand, was unveiled during excavations close to Kyburg Castle.
The gauntlet, described as the best-preserved in its class ever found in Switzerland, consists of individual iron plates intricately stacked like scales. These plates are connected through side rivets, forming a flexible glove. The components were originally affixed to a leather or textile base, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship. The gauntlet’s state of preservation allows for the recognition of numerous manufacturing and decorative details, setting it apart from previously known examples.
The Zurich cantonal infrastructure department emphasized the rarity of such finds, stating that only five 14th-century gauntlets had been discovered in Switzerland to date, none of which matched the level of preservation and detail exhibited by the Kyburg gauntlet. Lorena Burkhardt, the project leader, highlighted the uniqueness of the Kyburg specimen, stating, “The discovery is sensational due to its age and condition.”
Main Image :Copyright Canton of Zurich