Marble Doorframe Fragment with Cross and Knotwork

Byzantine and Christian Museum, Athens, Greece

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Material: Marble
Date range: 10th century AD (Horizontal part)
Origin: Unknown (Byzantine period)

Close-up of a horizontally-oriented fragment of a marble doorframe. The stone is carved with deep, elaborate relief decoration.

The center features a stylized cross enclosed within a rectangular frame or arch.

Flanking the central cross is intricate, highly detailed interlaced knotwork (or ribbon ornament). This is a characteristic element of Byzantine decorative sculpture.

The decoration terminates on both sides with a partial relief carving of an animal or bird, depicted with textured feathers or scales and a downward-facing head (possibly an eagle or peacock).

This horizontal part of the marble doorframe is dated to the 10th century.

English Text:

Greek Text:

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Marble doorframe fragment (horizontal part) with relief decoration, 10th century

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Source:  Athens, Greece