Near East, Holy Land, Judea, ca. 4th to 5th century CE. This a large hand-carved stone architectural piece depicting a seven lamp (6 branches plus a central arm) menorah on a thick rectangular slab. The stone is relief carved into a porous gray stone, with a heavy layer of red earthen and mineral deposits. This menorah is flanked by two lower triangular shapes that are incised with a faint, indiscernible motif or inscription. The menorah was historically used by Moses in the sanctuary he established in the wilderness and later in the famous Temple of Jerusalem. The motif was a popular symbol incorporated into architecture such as temples, synagogues, beth midrash, and burial markers. This large example was perhaps a lintel for such a building and is well defined despite the years of exposure to elements. A fabulous ancient example of this religious symbol! Size: 16.5" L x 3.5" W x 13" H (41.9 cm x 8.9 cm x 33 cm)

This piece has been searched against the Art Loss Register database and has been cleared. The Art Loss Register maintains the world's largest database of stolen art, collectibles, and antiques.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection, acquired 1990s; ex-private New York, USA collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.

Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#166008

Surface abrasions and softening of details. Chips and losses to peripheries. Heavy earthen and mineral deposits throughout.