Byzantin Fragment de carreau en terre cuite à décor de chevaux et de palmiers, 21 x 18 cm -carrelage -

A square Byzantine terracotta tile, moulded in bas-relief, depicting a scene with two horses flanking a palm tree. The palm tree became a Christian symbol, as it is a natural cross representing victory. It was also understood as a symbol of resurrection because it never loses its greenness. Tiles of this type were made in moulds to facilitate mass production. They were designed in various shapes; rectangular, square or quadrangular, and their specific shape was determined by their aesthetic function as a decorative element. They were added to the exterior of buildings and could detail scenes from the Old and New Testament, faces of Christ and other prolific biblical figures, as well as abstract floral and animal motifs.

Provenance: Purchased at auction at L.F. maison de ventes, France, April 2024.

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Due to Switzerland customs regulations about antiques over 100 years old, this lot cannot be sold to customers residing in Switzerland.