Moses and Jesus on ivory. A 1,500 year old unique relic has been discovered in Austria

Austrian archaeologists have discovered a unique 1,500-year-old ivory box. It depicts Moses, the saints and the ascension of Jesus Christ.

The relic was found inside a marble shrine of an early Christian church that was excavated in southern Austria. Scientists emphasize that this is a very valuable find, writes DailyMail.

The discovery was made by researchers from the University of Innsbruck who excavated an ancient church that once stood on top of the Burgbichl in the municipality of Irschen in southern Austria. The region once belonged to the Roman Empire. Scientists believe that this church was probably a pagan shrine to Roman Emperor Constantine the Great's law recognizing Christianity more than 1,600 years ago.

The box found is considered a very important find by archaeologists, as sacred objects from early Christianity are extremely rare. Only 40 such discoveries have been made in the world, the last relic was discovered during excavations about 100 years ago.

"We know that such finds only come along once in an archaeologist's life as a scientist," said leading Austrian archaeologist Gerald Grabherr.

A team of Austrian researchers discovered a stone seal in a pit-like depression where an altar once stood. Upon removing it, they saw a white marble box.

The artifact was found smashed to shreds. However, putting the find together came out a circle that was held together by metal and wooden clasps.

The central image on the found box is the scene of Moses receiving the 10 Commandments from God on Mount Sinai, as described in the Old Testament. Another scene depicts the resurrection of Jesus Christ after his crucifixion.

There is also an image of two horses on the box. "There are several passages in the Bible with two horses, including Revelation 19:11, which says, 'I saw heaven standing open, and before me was a white horse, and its rider is called Faithful and True,'" noted Dr. Barbara Kainrath, who is involved in the study.

The Bible also tells of the Egyptians riding horses and chariots in pursuit of Moses and the Israelites.

There is another man with a beard among the images. Scientists are inclined to think that this is the ascension of the prophet Elijah to heaven. However, all the symbols and images will still be investigated in more detail.

Archaeologists also debate where such a perfect box was itself made. The ivory box is undoubtedly a product not made in Irschen. Due to the quality of the workmanship and the skill of the craftsman, we can be sure that this artisan originated from a large urban center. We assume that the territory of manufacture of the box between Alexandria, Ravenna or Aquileia", - says the team of Austrian scientists.

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