Byzantine and Christian Museum :: Permanent exhibition .::. I. From the ancient world to Byzantium .::. Ι.1. Old forms-New symbols
Table leg with the Good Shepherd (00002)
Exhibition room: I.1 Old forms-New symbols
Date: 4th c.
Dimensions (cm): 0,73X 0,2
Provenance: Corinth
The Good Shepherd takes the form of a shepherd boy with a ram over his shoulders. It stands on a circular base with two tiny ?lambs [lit. rams] looking up at him. The subject of the Good Shepherd was very popular in Late Antique monuments, such as − in addition to table supports − sarcophagi, wall-paintings in tombs, and lamps. Its spread was facilitated by the multiple meanings inherent in this figure, which can express a wide range of virtues, equally acceptable in both pagan and Christian circles. The piece, which was found in Ancient Corinth, is considered a product of a workshop from Asia Minor.