This magnificent lead sarcophagus reveals that Judaism continued to thrive in Ancient Israel despite the brutal repression of the Roman Occupation. A circular band that once framed the central image is still visible in the bottom right corner. Inside this circle, one sees the image of a menorah surmounted by two bunches of grapes. One of the oldest symbols of the Jewish faith, the menorah is a seven-branched candelabrum used to light the Temple that is today closely identified with the Jewish holiday Chanukah. Historically, grapes were one of the most important products in Israel, grown both to eat as well as to make wine. Wine was often used in ceremonial occasions and grapes were offered at the alter. The vine and grapes are a symbol of fertility and blessing from the lord. Thus the iconography of this sarcophagus clearly identifies the deceased individual who was once held within its confines as a pious Jew who was blessed by the lord in life, as he no doubt also was in death. - (X.0263)

Antiquities
Ancient Roman