Dwarven Signet Blocks

Dwarves in the Ildonian region pride themselves on their unique ability to superheat their forges, hammers, and weapons using the lava of the volcano itself. A result of this is a somewhat unique cross between art form and writing form. The dwarves begin by forging a weapon, usually a hammer, with a signet on its face. The hammer is then heated to an appropriate temperature for the material being used and pressed into it to burn or melt a relief into it. Most commonly this is wooden blocks of varying sizes and shapes. The blocks are then used as stamps, covered in ink and pressed to leave a mark.
The most unique of these blocks are on the extremely large size or are burning into materials that showcase their unique origins. Usually a Dwarven forge's signage will be burned in as a signet and some can be large format stone or even metal to showcase their abilities. Most of these signets are intended to be carried as personal identifiers though. Even these for the opulent might be made from precious metals.
Most frequently the burned relief is made as an inverse of the desired image since the inked version is more likely to be read by others. However, for signage or signets which speak for themselves the burn in process is kept without inverse. The most elaborate designs go well beyond writing and runes or symbols and move into actual scenes or landscapes featuring depth and shading burned into the relief. Many feature animals or famous figures.
The art form is well respected outside of dwarf culture. Many elves and gnomes have emulated the form in their own style. Elves using naturally grown reliefs using their magics or druidcraft. Gnomes burn reliefs not using fire but rather alchemical process and acids. It is so common in Ildonia now that every boat made in the city is given a relief of its name and the burning plate is kept onboard the ship in the captain's quarters as the heart of the ship.

Item type

Art