Ilaria Rosella Pagliaro A fortuitous purchase at a thrift shop could prove to be an incredible historical discovery linked to Robert I of Scotland, known as Robert the Bruce
An unusual discovery made by a Scottish antique dealer in a thrift shop could write a new chapter in medieval Scottish history. Richard Drummond, an antiques expert, purchased a stained glass window for just 25 pounds (about $25) at a market in Moffat, Scotland, never imagining that this piece, hidden beneath decades of grime, could date back to the 14th century and have a direct connection to King Robert the Bruce, the iconic figure of Scottish independence.
The Latin inscription reveals a possible link to Robert the Bruce
Drummond recounted that once he cleaned the accumulated dirt from the glass, a Latin inscription emerged: “Robert Rex Scotorum”, translating to “Robert, King of Scots”. The depicted scene shows what appears to be the figure of a knight, surrounded by ornamental motifs and ancient inscriptions. The piece was reportedly found in an old abandoned house in the area and put up for sale without anyone knowing its true value.
What aroused the antique dealer’s suspicion was precisely the style of the glass painting and the engravings, which, according to a local museum curator, could indicate an age of several centuries. Richard immediately initiated historical research, involving local and international experts, in an attempt to verify the object’s origin.
It could come from a castle linked to the king or from the Knights Templar
According to Drummond, the stained glass window could have arrived from France via the Knights Templar or come from one of the castles conquered or inhabited by Robert the Bruce during his struggle for Scottish independence. However, it’s not yet clear which castle might be the original source. To try to date the artifact precisely, Richard and his son Alfie were invited to participate in an episode of the BBC’s “The Bidding Room”, where the experts present suggested that the object could be up to 700 years old. Richard, 49, commented:
If the era is confirmed, this is a historical discovery of enormous significance for Scotland. It could truly be a priceless piece.
The glass, in exceptional condition, also impressed with its state of preservation. “It’s a medieval work of art, a fragment of Scottish history forgotten and found by chance in Moffat,” added the antique dealer, who hopes to see the object displayed in a museum, should its authenticity be confirmed.
