This is the 13392nd most frequent Russian word.
надписью
"Надписью" means "inscription" in English.
In this sentence, the word 'надписью' is used to signify the instrumental case of 'надпись', denoting the means by which the quote is presented—through a written display or inscription.
На стене была надписью выведена известная цитата.
On the wall was written a famous quote.
Here, 'надписью' again stands in the instrumental case, describing the method or medium (an inscription) utilized for titling the book.
Книга была заглавлена надписью на обложке.
The book was titled by an inscription on the cover.
In this example, 'надписью' refers to the instrumental means by which the information (date of construction) is conveyed—through the inscription.