Images

Perhaps the oldest known image of Maryand is dated c. 230 to 240 CE. It depicts Mary nursing the Infant Jesus, while the figure at the left appears to be the prophet Balaam pointing to a star (outside the frame). This fresco is in the Catacombs...

Fractio Panis (or The Breaking of the Bread) fresco in the Greek Chapel in the Catacombs of Priscilla, Rome, Italy. Dated to the first half of the 2nd century CE.

Corridor leading to the door that takes visitors down into the Catacombs of Priscilla, Rome, Italy. 2nd century to 5th century CE.

Waiting area/reception in The Catacombs of Priscilla, Rome, Italy, 2nd century to 5th century CE.

The convent of the Benedictine Sisters of Priscilla above the Çatacombs of Priscilla, Rome, Italy. 2nd century to 5th century CE.

A cast brass plaque depicting warriors of the kingdom of Benin (13-19th century CE) in West Africa (modern southern Nigeria). The central figure is likely a king (Oba). From Benin City, 16th-17th century CE. Height: 47.6 cms (Metropolitan...

A cast brass plaque perhaps commemorating rulers of the kingdom of Benin (13-19th century CE) in West Africa (modern southern Nigeria). From Benin City, 16th-17th century CE. Height: 45.5 cms (British Museum, London)

A cast brass head, probably of a king (Oba) and used as an altarpiece decoration. The kingdom of Benin (13-19th century CE) in West Africa (modern southern Nigeria). From Benin City, 16th-17th century CE. Height: 24 cms (British Museum...

A carved ivory hip pendant in the form of a mask. The kingdom of Benin (13-19th century CE) in West Africa (modern southern Nigeria). With bronze and iron inlays. Possibly depicting Queen Idia. Benin City, 16th century CE. Height: 24.5 cm...

A Hittite Lion Tub lying among the ruins of the Great Temple at Hattusa, the capital of the Hittite Empire. The basin was originally 5.5 metres long, and featured crouching lions at all four corners. It probably had a role in cult rituals.