Circa 5th-7th century A.D. Discoid in form with integral loop, obverse with low-relief images of mounted Saint Sisinnios killing the demon Gyllou (Lilith), Agnus Dei, a stork, a lion, the holy snake Chnoubis and other symbols with Greek text between; reverse with a standing nimbate angel within a panel of Greek text from Psalm 91. Cf. for some of the represented symbols on medallions Wamser, L., Die Welt von Byzanz - Europas Östliches Erbe, München, 2004, items 577, 582; Faraone, C.A., 'Text, Image and Medium, The Evolution of Graeco-Roman Magical Gemstones' in Entwistle, C., Adams, N., Gems of Heaven, recent research on engraved Gemstones in Late Antiquity, c. AD 200-600, London, 2011, pp.50-61, pls.2 a-c. 17.3 grams, 73 mm (2 7/8 in.).

From the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.

The text surrounding the angel recites the verses of Psalm 90 (Heb.91) in the ‘Great Reward Prayer’ (?????? ?????????): …? ???????? ?? ??????? ??? ???????, ?? ????? ??? ???? ??? ??????? ????????????. ???? ?? ?????, ?????????? ??? ??, ??? ???????? ???… = …He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress…'