Tombstone of Beratius Nikatoras C016 / 8798
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Tombstone of Beratius Nikatoras C016 / 8798
Funerary plaque of Beratius Nikatoras from an underground burial chamber, the Hypogeum Campana in Rome. It dates from the 3rd century AD when Christians were persecuted in the Roman Empire. The inscription, which is in a mixture of Latin and Greek, refers to Beratius Nikatoras Lazaria, his wife Julia and a child Onesime. Below the inscription are a number of discreet Christian symbols relating to salvation and resurrection. In the centre stands the figure of the Good Shepherd carrying a sheep, on the left Jonah is ejected from the whale after three days, prefiguring the resurrection of Jesus; the lion on the right probably alludes to Daniel. Above them on each side is the chi-rho monogram of Christ, and at the bottom, representing salvation, is a disguised cross in the form of an anchor
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9244301
© SHEILA TERRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
3rd Century Anchor Bible Burial Chamber Christ Christian Legend Pagan Resurrection Rome Symbolism Symbols Whale Catacombs Chi Rho Daniel Funerary Good Shepherd Hypogeum Jonah Religious Persecution Salvation Tombstone
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the tombstone of Beratius Nikatoras, a poignant relic from the 3rd century AD when Christians faced persecution in the Roman Empire. The funerary plaque was discovered in an underground burial chamber known as the Hypogeum Campana in Rome. Its inscription, written in a blend of Latin and Greek, commemorates Beratius Nikatoras Lazaria, his wife Julia, and their child Onesime. What makes this tombstone truly remarkable are the discreet Christian symbols adorning it. At its center stands the figure of the Good Shepherd tenderly carrying a sheep, symbolizing Jesus' care for his followers. On one side is Jonah being expelled from the whale after three days—an allegory prefiguring Jesus' resurrection—while on the other side, a lion likely alludes to Daniel's miraculous survival among ferocious beasts. Above them both are chi-rho monograms representing Christ himself—a powerful testament to faith even amidst adversity. And at its base lies an anchor cleverly disguised as a cross—a potent symbol of salvation. This image not only captures ancient religious symbolism but also serves as a reminder of those tumultuous times when Christians were persecuted for their beliefs. It offers us insight into their unwavering devotion and resilience during that era. Photographed by Sheila Terry for Science Photo Library, this print invites contemplation on history's intersection with faith and reminds us of humanity's enduring quest for spiritual solace even in challenging circumstances.
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