Stamp piston

Craftsmen guilds had a very important role in the life of urban communities. These organisations not only controlled the quality and set the prices of crafted goods, but also determined the rules of professional development and played a part in the personal lives of craftsmen and their families. The guild authorities made sure that the members properly represented their guilds, and made every effort to make the guilds respected among the general public. Impressive seals used for authenticating document also helped build the image of these organisations. The images featured on seals were intended to showcase the profile of the guild and the crafts it represented, as well as to convey that the members of the organisation are respected, competent craftsmen. This can be clearly seen on the impressive seal of the millers of Stargard. The skills of millers were not limited to grinding flour. They knew the construction and operations of the mill, and since most of the mechanisms were made of wood, they also had to master carpentry skills. Thus, in addition to the main drive of the mill – the mill wheel – the seal also features woodworking tools, such as axes, chisels, squares, measures, levels or compasses. These items are also visible on the seal of the Stargard millers. The emblem is embellished with additional elements. Two griffins supporting the emblem are a clear allusion to Pomeranian heraldry, while the crest at the top alludes the noble nature of their work and its important role in the local community.

Mieszko Pawłowski