Medieval skeleton with iron prosthetic hand

German Scientists have unearthed the remains of a man who lived around the 15th century and wore a prosthetic hand with four immobile fingers.

Scan of a prosthetic hand with four metal fingers. Photo: Bavarian State Office for Monuments Preservation

The Bavarian State Office for Monuments Conservation announced the discovery of a medieval skeleton with an iron prosthetic hand during excavations near St George's Church in Freising, Bavaria, Germany, Ancient Origins reported on October 29. The new discovery provides clear evidence of ancient prosthetic and medical technology.

Carbon dating results show that the man was between 30 and 50 years old, and lived around 1450 and 1620. During this period in Europe, prosthetic limb technology boomed, partly due to the need to assist wounded soldiers returning from conflicts.

Dr. Walter Irlinger of the Bavarian State Office for Monuments Conservation said the newly discovered prosthetic was truly remarkable. "The hollow prosthetic hand on the left has four fingers. The index, middle, ring and little fingers were made individually from sheet metal and are immobile. The prosthetic fingers lie parallel to each other and are slightly curved," Irlinger said. In addition, the prosthetic is secured with straps.

Inside the metal prosthesis, researchers found a gauze-like fabric that could have been used to cushion the amputated limb. The thumb bone was located on the inside of the prosthesis, suggesting that the patient retained the thumb after the amputation.

The new find is remarkable, but not unique. To date, experts have found about 50 prosthetics from the late Middle Ages and early modern period in Central Europe, ranging from crude, motionless versions to complex versions with mechanical components.

One of the most notable discoveries came in 2018, when archaeologists excavated the remains of a medieval warrior with a long-healed amputated arm at the Longobard cemetery in Verona. Nearby, they found a belt buckle and a knife, suggesting the warrior may have used the knife as a prosthetic to replace his hand.

The discovery in Freising provides valuable information about the use and development of prosthetic limbs in the 15th century. The craftsmanship and meticulousness of the Freising iron hand demonstrates the medical advances and adaptability of the period.

Thu Thao (According to Ancient Origins )

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