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Relief of a Stylite Saint

5th–6th century
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
The bearded stylite saint in monk’s garb sits atop his column as a dove, a messenger of God, places a wreath over his hood. One of his followers climbs a ladder, swinging a censer to help evoke his aid. Found near Qal‘at Sem‘an, the saint may be Saint Symeon the Elder whose pilgrimage site there drew the devout from across the ancient world, including Ghassanid Arab Christians who protected the Byzantine borders in the region.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Relief of a Stylite Saint
  • Date: 5th–6th century
  • Geography: Made in Syria
  • Medium: Basalt
  • Dimensions: Overall: 33 1/4 x 29 15/16 x 7 5/16 in. (84.5 x 76 x 18.5 cm)
  • Classification: Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Stiftung Preußischer Kulturbesitz, Staatliche Museen zu Berlin—Skulpturensammlung und Museum für Byzantinische Kunst, Berlin (9/63)
  • Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters