Roman Sarcophagus In Marble - Ivth

Very rare Roman sarcophagus in white marble, probably from the 4th century. 231 cm*74 It was the subject of an old consolidation. Part of its base is now broken, but the set is complete. On the front face on the right and on the left two characters face each other; Possibly a biblical scene with Christ in the center, surrounded by two apostles. We recognize the characteristic strigiles. On both sides representations of small shells adorn the stone. A restoration is necessary because it has survived the centuries … outdoors. The history of this piece and its ownership undeniably gives it additional value: It comes indeed and in all likelihood from the necropolis of the Champs Elysée in Arles. In 1640, four sarcophagi (Notice of Antiquities and Paintings in the Lyon Museum – page 41) were given to the Archbishop of Lyon, Alphonse du Plessis de Richelieu, brother of the Cardinal Minister. Three of them would be identified, the most beautiful is now used as an altar (see the sarcophagus of La Tourette by the friends of old Arbresle), the fourth of less beautiful workmanship remained in the former house of the cardinal's fields . It is the latter that we present to you. It was for a time transformed into a drinking trough, no doubt under the guidance of the Sisters of the Visitation, then remained forgotten... in a corner of the property. Sarcophagus elements are often found for sale, but the sale of a complete piece is quite exceptional.