ostracon ancient art
catalogue

Roman Red Slip Bowl with Christian Relief Decoration, 350-400 AD

Fine red slip bowl with explicit Christian symbolism. The rim is decorated with two fish alternating with a capital and a palm branch.

The fish allude to Christian faith while the capital may stand for a pillar, as a symbol for the passion of Christ and the place where he was bound and whipped. The palm wreath reinforces the symbolism of his victory over death.

In the late Roman imagery of North Africa this is an example that did coexist with pagan iconography.

D. 14.4 cm (5.7 in), H. 4.5 cm (1.8 in)

Reconstituted from fragments, interesting example.

French private collection, sold at Marseille Enchères Provence.

1650 USD