Description:  An exceptionally rare and powerful piece of Early Christian to Late Roman/Byzantine history, this hand-carved basalt architectural fragment dates back approximately 1,600 years to the ancient Holy Land.

This is an extraordinary opportunity to own a tangible link to one of the world's oldest continuous faiths. The piece prominently features a seven-branched menorah, the quintessential Jewish symbol of light, spirituality, and the enduring flame of a people.

Overview

Carved in relief into durable, dark basalt stone, this fragment once graced a significant structure in ancient Judea, most likely serving as a lintel above a synagogue entrance or a decorative wall plaque. The craftsmanship is evident in the deeply cut, stylized representation of the menorah, which is flanked by lower triangular shapes, possibly representing other ritual items such as a lulav or etrog.

The raw, weathered condition tells a story of survival, having withstood centuries of exposure to the elements. Its rough, trapezoidal edge indicates it is a portion of a larger original architectural element. This artifact is a testament to the resilience of the Jewish community under Roman rule, a period where the synagogue became the central focus of Jewish life.

Key Details

• Period: Late Roman to Byzantine Period, Circa 4th–5th Century C.E.
• Origin: Holy Land / Ancient Judea
• Material: Carved Basalt Stone
• Motif: Seven-branched Menorah relief
• Function: Likely a synagogue architectural element (lintel or plaque)
• Condition: Excellent antique condition commensurate with age; heavily weathered with mineral deposits, adding a rich patina of authenticity and historical gravity. Refer to photos for exact condition.

Dimensions: H:8 in W:21 in D:12 in