Lot 493: BYZANTINE EMPIRE. Circa 10th-11th. Century AD. Lazuli Azure stone. Religious Placque-Idol.

BYZANTINE EMPIRE. Circa 10th-11th. Century AD. Lazuli Azure stone (32.94 gm; 54mm x 40mm x 7mm). Religious Placque / Idol. A fine lapis lazuli plaque, skillfully carved with an image of Jesus Christ as Pantocrator holding an open Gospel book in His left hand and making a gesture of benediction with his right hand, his fingers arranged to form the initials of His monogram IC XC , in order to bless the faithful. Incredible style and quality. Ex. Hirsch Auction from about 15 years ago. Extremely rare. Wonderful piece of Byzantine Antiquity.