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Relief of a Stylite Saint

5th–6th century

Not on view

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.

Relief of a Stylite Saint, Basalt — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

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)

Object Number: isl1726

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Medieval Art and The Cloisters at The Met

The Museum's collection of medieval and Byzantine art is among the most comprehensive in the world, encompassing the art of the Mediterranean and Europe from the fall of Rome to the beginning of the Renaissance.