Funerary Stela Of Dios (HARGM3596)

3D Model

Round-topped rectangular limestone stela. The architectural decoration consists of a hemisphere bounded by a guilloche spiral within the circuit of the stela, the whole being supported by two end-pillars flanking a central Maltese cross. The upper left side, which is shown in an early photo (Rustafjaell 1909, pl. 35) is now missing. Below the whole, is cut one line of Greek text reading εἷς θεός ὁ βοηθῶν Διὁς (there is one God who helps. Dios). The latter is a personal name, which may be an abbreviated form of Dios(coros), the name of two of the Coptic church’s patriarchs. Previously part of the collection of Robert de Rustafjaell, which was sold at auction (lot 88) in 1907. It was purchased by the dealer Lawrence before becoming part of the Kent collection. Bequeathed to Harrogate Museum in 1968. According to Rustafjaell, the stela comes from the neighbourhood of Thebes. It dates to the Fourth–Seventh century AD.