Märgilised

Märgilised is an Estonian term used in archaeology, art history and manuscript studies to denote markings, signs or inscriptions found on objects, documents and architectural features. The concept covers both durable inscriptions carved, incised, painted or stamped on material and more ephemeral signs made in margins or on wrappers. In scholarly use, märgilised illuminate origin, dating, function and ownership.

The word derives from the root märgi- meaning to mark, with a plural form used in academic contexts. It applies across artifacts from stone monuments to manuscripts, reflecting a broad typology of mark-bearing surfaces.

Types include physical inscriptions (engraved, incised, painted or stamped); marginalia (notes or annotations in manuscript margins); symbols and seals (emblems, monograms, heraldic marks); and ownership marks such as labels or inventory stamps.

Märgilised provide data about production, use and exchange, aiding dating and provenance. Interpreting them requires considering wear, later additions, restoration and stylistic variation.

Documentation commonly uses high-resolution photography, oblique lighting, 3D scanning, rubbings and transcription, with data stored in epigraphic databases. Conservation considerations may apply when inscriptions are eroded or at risk.

See also: epigraphy, marginalia, iconography.