Object Description
A fine terracotta pilgrim token of Symeon the Stylite. The token is circular in shape with a domed back and irregular edges depicting in the centre a stylite saint atop a pillar (i.e. ‘style’). Two floating angels are visible on either side of the saint. There is a ladder leaning against the column on the right, possibly serving as a visual representation of his connection to the Earth and his disciples. An amphora-type vessel surmounted by a cross is depicted in the lower left field. A granulated frame surrounds the image. The obverse is undecorated but features fingerprint impressions, reflecting the handcrafted nature of the token.
Date: Circa 6th-7th century AD