| This is a composite capital carved with stylized
acanthus leaves which still bear traces of green
coloring. The base is decorated with rosettes,
quatrefoils and meandering patterns.
The capital's base is formed into a shallow
"basket" carved with quatrefoils and
meandering patterns. These different elements are in
harmony. Acanthus branches spring from the base, and
in the lower section they are arranged in sets of
three, of which the middle one is the largest. They
retain little of their natural appearance as the tips
droop pronouncedly. The other branches are longer and
more stylized, leaving a considerable part of the
background visible, where the dark green paint
enhances the effect of the relief. This piece dates to
the 6th century. |