- Object type
- Metalwork
- Date
- Production: 1st century - 3rd century
- Subject(s)
-
Bearers of the Cross
Hospitals
Knights Hospitaller - Dimensions
- Height x width x depth: 113 x 80 x 35mm
- Materials and technique
- Bronze, cast and engraved
- Related place(s)
-
Muristan
Old City of Jerusalem
East Jerusalem - References
-
Williams, R. Museum Catalogue. 1961
261
Haddad, Elie, and Elisheva Zwiebel, "Unique Lion-Headed Handles from a Roman-Period Cist Tomb South of Khirbat Ibreika." Atiqot 117 (2025): 157-175. https://publications.iaa.org.il/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2257&context=atiqot - Provenance
- Discovered in the ruins of the Muristan, Jerusalem.
- Credit line
- Gift of J. J. Fell-Clark, Esq., 1947
- Catalogue number
- 5617
Lion head handle
There has been debate about the function of these Roman lion-heads, with suggestions that they could have served as door-knockers. It seems more likely, though, that they were coffin handles. This view is supported by very similar artefacts being discovered at various burial sites. The lion was likely meant to act as a guardian and protector for the deceased.