The synergy of history, archaeology, and advanced technology has enabled researchers from Friedrich Schiller University in Jena and the INNOVENT e.V. research center to uncover a mystery that had remained hidden for more than four centuries. Using computed tomography (CT), researchers were able to “look inside” a heavily corroded 16th-century sword and discover an engraving that preserved the name of the master swordsmith from Solingen— Klemens Stamm. This was reported by Techno.nv.ua.
The artifact was found among the ruins of the historic Collegium Jenense complex, which served as the spiritual and educational center of the University of Jena from the 16th to the 19th centuries. During archaeological excavations, researchers came across several swords that may have belonged to professors or students of noble descent. One of these blades, completely covered with a layer of rust, sparked particular interest among experts.
Conservator Iwona Przemus speculated that an engraving might be hidden beneath the rust, and instead of the traditional cleaning method, the team decided to use a non-contact method—X-ray computed tomography. At the INNOVENT laboratory, the sword was examined using the EasyTom 150–160 system from the French company RX Solutions, which is capable of generating three-dimensional images with a resolution of less than one micrometer.
The data obtained allowed scientists to see the blade’s hidden structure: several layers of steel, remnants of the scabbard, minor deformations in the metal, and, most importantly, the engraved letters. After digital restoration, the inscription “Klemes Stam” became clearly visible in the image. This confirmed that the sword was made by a master craftsman from the city of Solingen, which in the 16th century was considered one of the leading centers of arms manufacturing in Europe. Blades like these, made between 1580 and 1620, are now on display at the German Blade Museum.
The project’s archaeologist, Dr. Enrico Paust, emphasized that computed tomography opens up entirely new possibilities for historical research:
“We can see not only the outward appearance of the artifacts, but also their inner history—literally right through the metal.”
In addition, analysis showed that the sword was made of different types of steel welded together, which attests to the high level of craftsmanship of the Solingen swordsmiths.
This discovery served as a striking example of how 21st-century technology helps bring the voices of the past back to life. When a 3D reconstruction bearing the name of Clemens Stamm appeared on the screen, it seemed as though the sword had “spoken” for the first time in 400 years, highlighting the connection between modern innovation and the artisanal excellence of the Renaissance.