Proroctwo legnickiej tragedii? Głos w dyskusji nad symboliką pieczęci księżnej Anny Przemyślidki
A prophecy of the tragedy of Legnica? A voice in discussion on the symbolism of the seal of Anne of Bohemia, Duchess of Silesia

Summary/Abstract: So far, the researchers presented divergent concepts regarding the 13th century seal of Anne of Bohemia, Duchess of Silesia. The controversy revolved chiefly around the identification and symbolism of the object held by the duchess in her hand, which is the main element shaping the ideological message of the sigillum. Settling this dispute seems beneficial for further research on the biography of the duchess because written sources offer contradictory accounts on her character and piety. Correct deciphering of the message conveyed by the sigillum can provide additional information in this regard. The above mentioned discussion was the reason to analyze the depiction of the duchess on the seal,with an aim of answering the question what kind of her image she wanted to present to the viewers. Such analysis was performed by comparing the artifact with seals of other medieval rulers from the Piast dynasty and rich, mighty women from Western Europe, taking into consideration also the political positon of Anne of Bohemia and accounts of her personal piety available from other sources. It allowed for verification of previous concepts of identification of the object held by the duchess and for recognizing it as fleur-de-lys (lily flower) and ascribing to it the symbolism of purity and sanctity, not power. Therefore, the seal of Anne of Bohemia depicts her as modest person, aware of her position in the court hierarchy, concentrated on the religious sphere of life, devoted to pious practices and worship, and cultivating the virtue of purity, particularly vital for the duchess.

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