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Ivory pyxis with St Menas
500/600
British Museum
London, United Kingdom
The scene narrates the moment of the saint’s martyrdom. To the left is the prefect ordering the execution and a soldier holding a diptych. The executioner stands with his sword raised, grasping the hair of Menas, while an angel sweeps in on the right with hands covered to receive his soul.
Details
- Title: Ivory pyxis with St Menas
- Date Created: 500/600
- Location: Alexandria, Egypt
- Physical Dimensions: H. 7.9 cm
- Subject Keywords: mammal; devotee/worshipper; saint/martyr; arms/armour; angel
- Place: Found/Acquired San Paolo fuori le Mura
- Period/culture: Early Byzantine
- Material: elephant ivory
- Copyright: The Trustees of the British Museum
- British Museum website: 1879,1220.1
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