The shape, style and decoration of this example are typical of lamps produced during the final centuries of the Empire and the early Byzantine period: the most active workshops were located in North African cities, but their
products were often imitated elsewhere, notably in Italy and Gaul.
Carved from two fragments of dark green stone mottled with light patches (steatite probably), these two objects represent animals with highly stylized and abstract shapes.
This cross, which can still be opened and closed, is composed of two bronze boxes that were molded and held by hinges. A thick suspension ring enabled the encolpion to be worn as a pendant.
