Silver gilt panaghiarion

Silver gilt panaghiarion with a broad handle and a cover with a representation of the Virgin Orans with Jesus. On the inside is represented the Hospitality of Abraham and on the handle the Dormition of the Virgin. The panaghiarion is a monastic receptacle for the Virgin’s portion of the Eucharistic bread. Byzantine panaghiaria are made of ivory or of hard stone. In the 15th c., panaghiaria in the form of a diptych pectoral worn by the dignitaries of the Church also made their appearance. Late 16th-early 17th c. L. 0,34, diam. 0,15 m. (ΓΕ 14007)