2nd-3rd century A.D. Irregular fragment with raised concentric rings, low-relief wreath and raised bulbs forming a stem with seven arms. 1.36 kg, 32.5 cm (12 3/4 in.).

Acquired on the German art market, 1989-1995. with The Museum Gallery, 19 Bury Place, London, WC1, UK, 1998-2003. Property of a London based academic, 2003-present. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12097-214786.

This fragment of a sarcophagus front is probably a remnant of a Jewish sarcophagus from the Roman period. It belongs to a style of sarcophagi made in the Levant, often decorated with dolphins, sphinxes and other symbols of the hereafter.